Special Education Strat - Elementary

Job Description

Title: Special Education Strategist I

FLSA Status: Exempt

Classification: Certified Teacher

Immediate Supervisor: Building principal and/or designated administrators

Waterloo Schools is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Responsible for providing educational leadership through the district curriculum, facilitating equitable learning for all students, meeting board policies, and delivering the district curriculum in alignment with teaching strategies.

Education: Appropriate degree(s) earned from an accredited college or university

Certification: K‑8 or 5‑12 Strategist I

Experience: Dependent on specific open position

• Ability to work effectively, cooperatively and respectfully with staff, parents and community members regardless of race, creed, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic/national origin, religion, marital status, age, socio‑economic status or disability
• Knowledge of processes to address cultural diversity and associated issues related to student performance and instructional methodology
• Demonstrated record of commitment and sensitivity to affirmative action, equal opportunity and human rights
• Demonstrated experience as a self‑starter
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Good organizational skills
• Ability to accomplish tasks through the group process
• Ability to recognize sensitive issues and maintain confidentiality
• Demonstrated conflict resolution skills
• Experience working with students that have disabilities
• Co‑teaching background

• Knowledge of Google Suite applications
• Knowledge of computer‑related storage devices
• Knowledge of educational copyright laws
• Knowledge of computer security expectations

• Para educators assisting in classroom
• Student teachers as necessary

• Students and families
• All district personnel
• Volunteers
• Community members

• Enhances academic performance and supports the implementation of the district’s student achievement goals.
• Provides multiple forms of evidence of student learning and growth to students, families and staff, and implements strategies supporting students, building and district goals.
• Uses student performance data as a guide for decision making and sets high expectations for social, behavioural and academic success of all students.
• Creates an inclusive and respectful classroom culture, establishing and maintaining standards of responsible student behaviour and managing student behaviour in accordance with regulations and legal requirements.
• Aligns classroom instruction with local standards and district curriculum, employing research‑based instructional strategies and adapting instruction to meet diverse learning needs.
• Uses a variety of assessment methods, communicates assessment criteria and standards, provides timely feedback, and works with staff and leadership to analyse student progress.
• Manages the classroom, including procedures and routines that support high expectations for learning, instructional time, and a safe learning environment.
• Pursues professional growth, collaborates to improve practice, applies research and professional development, and implements plans aligned with teacher standards and district goals.
• Fulfills professional responsibilities, adhering to board policies, regulations, district procedures and contractual obligations, maintaining attendance and punctuality, providing accurate records, and protecting equipment, materials and facilities.

As defined by the Code of Iowa and Board policy.

Full‑Time

• Bachelor degree preferred.
• Citizenship, residency or work visa required.

Teachers assigned to special federal and state programs or grants must comply with Title I, IDEA, and Iowa Administrative Code regulations.