Elementary Special Education Teacher- Strat II

Elementary Special Education Teacher – Instructional Strategist II ()

NORWALK COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Job Title:
Elementary Special Education Teacher Strat II

Reports to:
Building Principal

Job

Final date to receive applications:
Posted until filled

Location:
Oviatt Elementary – Norwalk, Iowa

Position

Purpose:

The Elementary Special Education Teacher – Instructional Strategist II () is responsible for designing, implementing, and monitoring individualized, standards‑based instruction aligned to the Iowa Essential Elements for students with significant cognitive disabilities who qualify for special education. This position ensures that students with the most complex learning needs receive specially designed instruction (SDI), appropriate supports, and access to grade‑level content through alternate academic standards.

• Design and deliver specially designed instruction aligned to the Iowa Essential Elements (IEEs).
• Implement systematic, explicit, and data‑driven instructional practices appropriate for students with significant cognitive disabilities.
• Administer and interpret alternate assessments.
• Collect, analyze, and document ongoing progress‑monitoring data aligned to IEP goals and Essential Elements.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and legally compliant student records, including assessment documentation and service logs.
• Serve as case manager for students with significant disabilities, ensuring IEPs are compliant, instructionally appropriate, and data‑driven.
• Collaborate with families as equal partners, communicating student progress, needs, and instructional priorities clearly and respectfully.
• Provide instructional direction and oversight to para educators supporting students with significant disabilities, including modeling strategies and clarifying roles aligned to IEPs.
• Participate in problem‑solving and decision‑making related to student programming, behavior supports, and access to instruction.
• Ensure learning environments are safe, structured, predictable, and supportive of students with intensive needs.
• Maintain current knowledge of best practices related to instruction for students with significant disabilities, alternate assessment, and Essential Elements.
• Participate in professional learning aligned to district initiatives and state requirements.
• Uphold all district policies, professional ethics, and confidentiality requirements.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the building principal or district administration.

• Deep understanding of instruction for students with significant cognitive disabilities.
• Knowledge of Iowa Essential Elements and alternate academic standards.
• Knowledge of IDEA, Iowa special education rules, and assessment requirements for alternate assessment participation.
• Ability to design and deliver explicit, systematic instruction.
• Strong data‑analysis and progress‑monitoring skills.
• Ability to lead and support para educators effectively.
• Strong collaboration, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to use computer network systems and software applications as needed.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Valid Iowa Teaching License with K-12 Instructional Strategist II: .
• Experience with The Leader In Me preferred.

Physical requirements vary by individual job assignment but require a minimum of the following: walking, standing, bending, carrying, climbing, lifting 20 pounds, driving, pushing, pulling, reaching, sitting, and stooping.

Varied.

190‑day contract in accordance with the Master Contract.

In accordance with state code, Iowa Teaching Standards, and local performance criteria.

Exempt.

Position Type:
Full‑time.

Job Categories:
Special Education >
General Special Education.

All employers submitting a job opening for posting on the Teach Iowa system will not discriminate in hiring on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, age, physical disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, marital status, or status as a veteran. A bona fide religious institution may choose to exercise the allowances in Iowa Code section 216.6.(6) d. Employers may have additional developed specific equal employment opportunity policies and procedures;

please check with employers.

• Tiffany Yacovazzi , HR Generalist
• 380 Wright Road
• Norwalk, Iowa 50211
• Phone: 515‑981‑0676
• Email: tiffany.yacovazzi