Elementary Special Education Teacher - Strat 1 - Northwest (School Year 2026-2027)

The Ankeny Community School District (CSD) is renowned for its excellence across academics, athletics, the arts, and various activities. Situated in central Iowa, just 6 miles from Des Moines, Ankeny CSD caters to over 12,800 students from preschool through 12th grade, making it the 7th largest district in the state. With a strong reputation for its commitment to student success and a competitive salary and benefits package, Ankeny CSD is a standout choice for both educators and families seeking a high-quality educational environment.

 

JDE: 4.09

 

Special Education Teacher

 

Position Summary

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. Special Education 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. Special Education 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.

 

Job Title:  Special Education Classroom Teacher 

Salary: See Negotiated Teacher Salary Schedule  

Benefit Summary: C

Reports To:  Building Principal

Wage/Hour Status: Exempt

 

Qualifications:

 

Experience: 

• Prior teaching experience preferred, but not required

Education & Licensure:

• Bachelor’s degree in position related area
• Iowa State Teacher License

Endorsement Requirement:

• K-8 Instructional Strategist I: Mild/Moderate - 260

Required Skills: 

• 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.

 

Essential Functions

 

Instructional Support:

Accommodates and/or modifies course content, in collaboration with general education teachers, for the purpose of providing students with specially designed instruction that addresses individualized learning plans. Delivers specially designed instruction for the purpose of improving student success in academic, interpersonal, and daily living skills through a defined course of study. Demonstrates methods required to perform classroom and/or subject specific assignments for the purpose of providing an effective program that addresses individual student requirements. Supports classroom teachers for the purpose of assisting them in the implementation of established curriculum and/or individual student plans. 

 

Assessment and Progress Monitoring:

Administers developmental testing programs, subject specific assessments, etc. for the purpose of assessing student competency levels and/or developing individual learning plans. Assesses student progress towards objectives, expectations, and/or goals (e.g. behavioral, motor development and communication skills, academic needs, vocational abilities, etc.) for the purpose of providing feedback to students, parents, and administration. Prepares a variety of written materials (e.g. adaptive materials, grades, attendance, anecdotal records, IEPS, behavior logs, etc.) for the purpose of documenting student progress and meeting mandated requirements. 

 

Behavior and Student Support:

Manages student behavior for the purpose of providing a safe and optimal learning environment. Counsels students for the purpose of improving performance, health status, problem solving techniques, and a variety of personal issues. Monitors students in a variety of educational environments (e.g. classroom, playground, field trips, nap times, etc.) for the purpose of providing a safe and positive learning environment. 

 

Communication and Collaboration:

Advises parents and/or legal guardians of student progress for the purpose of communicating expectations, student's achievements, and developing methods for improvement and/or reinforcing classroom goals in the home environment. Collaborates with instructional staff, other school personnel, parents, and a variety of community resources for the purpose of improving the overall quality of student outcomes and achieving established classroom objectives in support of the school improvement plan. Responds to inquiries from a variety of sources (e.g. other teachers, parents, administrators, etc.) for the purpose of resolving issues, providing information and/or direction. Participates in a variety of meetings, including lEPs, and 504 meetings for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information required to perform functions. 

 

Student Health and Safety:

Administers, if nurse is not available, first aid and assistance to medically fragile children (e.g. tube feeding, toileting, diapering, etc.) for the purpose of providing appropriate care for children as assigned. Reports incidents (e.g. fights, suspected child abuse, suspected substance abuse, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining personal safety of students, providing a positive learning environment and adhering to state and federal laws and school board policies.

 

Attendance & Reliability:

Demonstrates consistent and reliable attendance and punctuality in alignment with district expectations, recognizing the importance of being present for students. Maintains instructional continuity and strong relationships by ensuring students experience consistency, support, and stability in their learning environment.

 

Adherence to Iowa Teaching & Ethical Standards:

Adheres to the Iowa Teaching Standards and the Iowa Ethical Standards for Educators by demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct in all instructional and professional practices. Upholds student confidentiality, maintains appropriate boundaries, and acts in the best interest of students, families, and the school community. Engages in reflective practice and continuous improvement consistent with state expectations for effective educators.

 

Other Functions

• Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned.
• Provide excellent customer service and assistance to all employees, fostering a welcoming and approachable atmosphere.
• Work efficiently and independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate respect and professionalism in all interactions with colleagues, students, and families.
• Use positive and professional communication in all interactions.
• Adhere to safety protocols and policies established by the Ankeny Community School District to ensure the safety of oneself and others.
• Support District goals and objectives while adhering to all District policies, contributing to the overall success of the school community.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

 

Working Environment

 

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

The usual and customary methods of performing the position functions require the following physical demands:  lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, climbing, reaching, driving, standing and walking. Working conditions may include extreme temperatures and humidity.  Hazards may include exposure to communicable diseases. This position requires one to maintain emotional control under stress. 

 

Terms of Employment:

Work year established by the District; Salary according to schedule adopted annually.

 

Clearances:

Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance

 

Evaluation:

Job performance will be evaluated annually, as per district policies and procedures.

 

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

 

Approved by:     Justin Mohr                               Date: January 9th, 2026

 

The Ankeny Community School District is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer.