Special Education Teacher Position - ANTICIPATED

Position Overview

Start Date: August 2026 (2026-2027 School Year)
Position Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Principal

Position Summary

We are seeking a compassionate, skilled special education teacher to support students with diverse learning needs. The ideal candidate will be committed to creating inclusive learning environments, implementing individualized programming, and collaborating with families and staff to ensure every student reaches their full potential.

Essential Responsibilities

Individualized Education Program (IEP) Management

• Develop, implement, and monitor standards-based IEPs in compliance with IDEA and state regulations
• Conduct comprehensive assessments to determine student strengths, needs, and present levels of performance
• Write measurable annual goals and objectives aligned with student needs and curriculum standards
• Lead IEP team meetings with parents, administrators, and related service providers
• Maintain accurate documentation of student progress, services, and accommodations
• Ensure timely completion of all required evaluations, re-evaluations, and annual reviews

Instruction & Intervention

• Provide direct specialized instruction in academic, functional, and/or behavioral areas based on IEP goals
• Deliver evidence-based interventions tailored to individual student learning profiles
• Modify and adapt curriculum, materials, and instructional strategies to meet diverse learning needs
• Implement accommodations and modifications in both special education and general education settings
• Use data-driven decision making to adjust instruction and monitor student progress
• Integrate assistive technology and specialized tools to support student learning and independence

Collaboration & Inclusion

• Partner with general education teachers to support inclusive practices and co-teaching models
• Consult with classroom teachers on implementing accommodations and modifications
• Coordinate with related service providers (speech, OT, PT, counseling) to ensure integrated support
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress, strategies, and celebrations
• Work collaboratively with paraprofessionals, providing guidance and supervision as needed

Behavior Support & Social-Emotional Learning

• Implement positive behavior intervention strategies and support plans
• Teach social skills, self-regulation, and executive functioning skills as needed
• Create structured, predictable learning environments that promote student success
• Conduct functional behavior assessments and develop behavior intervention plans when appropriate
• Foster student self-advocacy and independence skills

Compliance & Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local special education regulations
• Ensure confidentiality of student records and information
• Participate in professional development to stay current with best practices in special education
• Attend IEP meetings, staff meetings, and professional learning communities
• Contribute to building-wide initiatives and support school culture
• Supervise students during assigned duties and transitions

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field
• Valid Iowa state teaching license/certification in Special Education (or eligibility to obtain)
• Knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, and special education law and procedures
• Understanding of evidence-based instructional strategies for students with disabilities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders

Preferred

• Previous teaching experience in special education settings
• Experience with co-teaching and inclusive practices
• Experience with assistive technology and specialized software

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Deep understanding of various disability categories and their impact on learning
• Skilled in differentiating instruction for students with significant learning differences
• Proficient in administering and interpreting educational assessments
• Ability to write clear, legally compliant, measurable IEP goals
• Strong organizational skills and attention to procedural detail
• Patience, flexibility, and problem-solving abilities
• Cultural competency and commitment to equity and inclusion
• Proficient with educational technology, data management systems, and IEP software
• Ability to manage challenging behaviors with professionalism and compassion

Specific Areas of Focus

This position may support students in one or more of the following areas (to be specified):

• Learning Disabilities (LD)
• Emotional/Behavioral Disorders (EBD)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Intellectual Disabilities (ID)
• Speech/Language Impairments
• Other Health Impairments (OHI)
• Multiple Disabilities
• Resource Room support
• Self-Contained classroom instruction
• Co-teaching in inclusive settings

Working Conditions

• Standard school hours with additional time for IEP meetings, paperwork, and collaboration
• Evening meetings occasionally required for IEP conferences and parent meetings
• Physical requirements may include assisting students with mobility, personal care, or behavioral support
• Potential exposure to challenging behaviors; training in crisis intervention provided

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on education and experience, aligned with district salary schedule
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off
• Professional development opportunities and support for continuing education
• Mentoring and induction support for new teachers

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, transcripts, teaching license/certification, and three professional references to Principal Andrea Christians at achristians@pocahontas.k12.ia.us or call (712) 335-4848.

Equal Opportunity Statement: Pocahontas Area School is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal educational and employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.