Special Education Teacher

Job Title: Elementary Special Education Teacher

Reports to: Principal / Special Education Director

Location: United Community School District, Boone, IA

Job Summary:

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Elementary Special Education Teacher to join our team for the 2026-27 school year. The ideal candidate will have a passion for working with children with diverse learning needs, providing individualized instruction, and fostering a positive, inclusive learning environment. The Elementary Special Education Teacher will be responsible for developing and delivering specialized academic programs tailored to meet the needs of students with disabilities in a general education setting.

Essential Functions:

1. Instruction & Curriculum Development

• Develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Collaborate with parents, general education teachers, and other specialists to create, implement, and monitor IEPs for students with disabilities.
• Differentiated Instruction: Provide differentiated instruction to students in small groups or one-on-one settings, ensuring that lessons are accessible and engaging for students with a variety of learning needs.
• Academic Support: Assist students in improving academic skills in areas such as reading, writing, mathematics, and social skills, focusing on both content mastery and emotional/social growth.
• Progress Monitoring: Regularly assess student progress toward IEP goals, adjusting teaching methods and materials as necessary. Maintain accurate records of student progress and report regularly to parents and staff.

2. Classroom Management & Environment

• Positive Behavioral Support: Implement behavior intervention plans and provide support for students with behavioral needs. Establish and maintain a classroom environment that promotes positive behavior, respect, and safety.
• Inclusive Learning Environment: Create a classroom atmosphere that promotes inclusion and celebrates diversity, ensuring all students feel valued and supported.
• Collaboration with General Education Teachers: Work closely with general education teachers to modify and adapt classroom lessons to meet the needs of students with disabilities.

3. Collaboration & Communication

• Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other special education staff, administrators, and school support personnel to ensure the best outcomes for students with special needs.
• Family Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with students' families to provide updates on progress, address concerns, and involve them in the educational process.
• Professional Development: Participate in regular professional development activities to stay informed on best practices in special education, classroom management, and educational technology.

4. Compliance & Documentation

• IEP Compliance: Ensure all IEPs are created, implemented, and reviewed according to federal, state, and local regulations.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of student progress, services provided, and other required records.
• Assessment and Reporting: Conduct regular assessments to track student performance and provide detailed reports on academic, social, and emotional development.

5. Additional Responsibilities

• Attend Meetings: Attend and actively participate in IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and staff meetings as required.
• Supervision: Supervise students during non-classroom times such as lunch, recess, or field trips, ensuring their safety and well-being.
• Extra-Curricular Involvement: Support and participate in school-wide activities and initiatives that promote a positive school culture.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Special Education, Elementary Education, or a related field. A Master's degree in Special Education is preferred.
• Certification: Valid state teaching certification in Special Education for elementary levels (Grades K-6).
• Experience: Prior experience working with students with disabilities in an elementary school setting is preferred but not required.
• Skills:
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to adapt instruction to meet individual student needs.
  • Knowledge of current special education laws, regulations, and best practices.
  • Proficiency with educational technology and software.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods during the school day.
• Ability to lift and move materials up to [X] lbs.
• Ability to assist students with mobility challenges and physical activities as required.

Working Conditions:

• Work is typically performed in a classroom setting with occasional off-site visits for field trips or meetings.
• Occasional evening or weekend work for parent-teacher conferences or school events.

United Community Schools  is an Equal Opportunity Employer and seeks to foster a diverse and inclusive work environment. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds and identities to apply.

This job description provides a general overview of the key responsibilities and expectations for the role. Specific duties may be adjusted based on school needs and student requirements.