Special Education Teacher: Strat - Prairie Trail Elementary

Starting Date:
Aug 3, 2026

At Ankeny Schools, the Special Education Teacher plays a vital role in ensuring all students have access to meaningful learning experiences and the support they need to succeed. Teachers design and deliver individualized and small‑group instruction aligned with district curriculum, support students’ academic, social, and functional skill development, and create inclusive learning environments where students feel supported and valued. This career offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with general education teachers, professional staff, and administrators to meet diverse student needs.

Teachers also partner with families to support student growth and progress, making a meaningful and lasting impact within a forward‑thinking and supportive school community.

• Prior teaching experience preferred, but not required.
• Bachelor’s degree in a position related area and Iowa BOEE STRAT I Teacher License.
• Strong instructional planning and delivery aligned to district curriculum and learning goals.
• Ability to use assessment data to guide instruction and support student growth.
• Effective classroom management that fosters a positive, safe, and inclusive learning environment.
• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills with students, families, and colleagues.
• Ability to collaborate professionally and engage in continuous learning and improvement.

Accommodate and modify course content in collaboration with general education teachers to provide students with specially designed instruction that addresses individualized learning plans. Deliver specialized instruction to improve student success in academic, interpersonal, and daily living skills through a defined course of study. Support classroom teachers in implementing established curriculum and individual student plans.

Administer developmental testing programs and subject‑specific assessments to evaluate student competency levels and develop individual learning plans. Assess progress toward objectives, expectations, and goals (e.g., behavioral, motor development, communication skills, academic needs, vocational abilities) and provide feedback to students, parents, and administration. Prepare written materials (adaptive materials, grades, attendance, anecdotal records, IEPs, behavior logs) to document progress and meet mandated requirements.

Manage student behavior to create a safe and optimal learning environment. Counsel students to improve performance, health status, problem‑solving techniques, and personal issues. Monitor students in various educational settings (classroom, playground, field trips, nap times) to ensure safety and positive learning experiences.

Advise parents and/or legal guardians of student progress, communicate expectations, celebrate achievements, and develop strategies to reinforce classroom goals laborate with instructional staff, other school personnel, parents, and community resources to improve overall student outcomes and achieve classroom objectives supporting the school improvement plan. Respond to inquiries from teachers, parents, administrators to resolve issues and provide information. Participate in meetings, including LEPs and 504 meetings, to convey and gather necessary information.

Administer first aid and assistance to medically fragile children when a nurse is unavailable (tube feeding, toileting, diapering). Report incidents such as fights, suspected child abuse, or substance abuse to maintain personal safety and adhere to state and federal laws and school board policies.

Demonstrate consistent and reliable attendance and punctuality in alignment with district expectations, ensuring instructional continuity and strong relationships with students.

Follow the Iowa Teaching Standards and the Iowa Ethical Standards for Educators by demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct. Maintain student…