Special Education Teacher - ForceSource : Job Details

Job Description: Special Education Teacher

Location: Central Iowa Position Type: Full-Time Reports To: School Principal or Special Education Director

School Year: 2025-2026

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Job Summary

The Special Education Teacher is responsible for providing individualized instruction and support to students with diverse learning needs in accordance with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The teacher will collaborate with families, colleagues, and support staff to create an inclusive and effective learning environment that fosters academic, social, and emotional growth for all students.

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Key Responsibilities

Instruction and Curriculum Development

1. Develop and implement lesson plans tailored to meet the unique needs and abilities of students with disabilities.

2. Provide differentiated instruction in various formats, including one-on-one, small group, and co-taught classroom settings.

3. Adapt and modify general education curriculum to accommodate students' learning needs.

4. Utilize evidence-based teaching methods, instructional materials, and assistive technologies.

Student Assessment and Progress Monitoring

5. Conduct assessments to identify students' strengths, needs, and progress toward IEP goals.

6. Regularly evaluate student performance and adjust instructional strategies accordingly.

7. Maintain accurate and timely records of student progress and provide reports to parents/guardians and relevant staff.

IEP Development and Implementation

8. Collaborate with IEP teams to develop, review, and update Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for assigned students.

9. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and district special education regulations, including IDEA and Iowa-specific guidelines.

10. Monitor and document the implementation of accommodations and modifications as outlined in IEPs.

Collaboration and Communication

11. Work closely with general education teachers, paraprofessionals, and other support staff to ensure inclusive practices.

12. Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress, challenges, and successes.

13. Serve as a resource for colleagues on strategies to support diverse learners.

Classroom and Behavior Management

14. Create and maintain a structured, positive, and inclusive classroom environment.

15. Implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) as needed and promote positive behavior support strategies.

16. Address challenging behaviors proactively and effectively, utilizing de-escalation techniques when necessary.

Professional Development

17. Attend professional development sessions, workshops, and training as required to stay current with best practices and legal requirements in special education.

18. Participate in staff meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and school events as appropriate.

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Qualifications

Education and Certification

● Bachelor's degree in Special Education or a related field required.

● Valid Iowa Teaching License with appropriate special education endorsements (e.g., Instructional Strategist I or II).

Skills and Competencies

● Knowledge of Iowa's special education laws and procedures.

● Strong instructional, communication, and interpersonal skills.

● Ability to develop and implement IEPs and monitor progress effectively.

● Proficiency with assistive technologies and adaptive tools.

● Commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment.

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Physical Requirements

● Ability to lift and transfer students if necessary, in accordance with IEP requirements.

● May involve standing, walking, bending, and sitting for extended periods.

● Flexibility to adapt to various classroom and school settings.

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Work Environment

● Typical school setting with interaction among students, parents, teachers, and administrators.

● May require travel between schools within the district if serving multiple locations.

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Compensation and Benefits

● Salary based on the district's teacher salary schedule and level of experience.

● Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement options, and professional development opportunities.