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Program Administrator

Keystone Area Education Agency, Iowa, LA, United States


Program Administrator – Specialized Therapeutic Behavior Program (Anticipated Opening 2026-2027)
Keystone Area Education Agency is seeking a qualified Program Administrator to lead our Specialized Therapeutic Behavior Program beginning with the 2026–2027 school year. We are looking for an experienced and collaborative leader who is passionate about supporting students with significant social-emotional and behavioral needs while ensuring strong educational outcomes.

In this role, you will provide leadership and oversight for a K–12 program designed to support students with IEP-identified social-emotional behavior needs. You will partner with school districts, families, and AEA staff to ensure high-quality programming that meets state and federal requirements and supports the delivery of a free and appropriate public education (FAPE).

Program & Location Information
This is a newly developed program for the 2026–2027 school year, located at the Keystone AEA facility in Elkader, Iowa.

Position Overview
The Program Administrator leads the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of a specialized therapeutic behavior program. This position focuses on program quality, compliance, staff supervision, and collaboration with member districts to ensure effective services across the continuum of supports.

This role emphasizes strong leadership, relationship-building, and a commitment to data-informed decision-making to improve outcomes for students with complex needs.

Qualifications

Master’s degree in Educational Leadership or Special Education Administration

Current Iowa Board of Educational Examiners license with PK-12 Principal and Special Education Supervisor endorsements or equivalent

Minimum of five years of successful experience in special education

Demonstrated experience in behavior programming and administrative leadership

Ability to travel to program sites and school districts within the AEA service area

Compensation & Contract Details

(anticipated)

215-day contract

Starting salary range: $120,000 – $130,000, based on education and experience

Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, IPERS, and paid leave

Key Responsibilities

(anticipated)

Provide leadership and oversight for the Specialized Therapeutic Behavior Program

Ensure compliance with state and federal requirements, including IEP processes and FAPE

Supervise and support teachers and paraeducators within the program

Collaborate with member school districts to support student programming and services

Lead program evaluation efforts and prepare required reports on program effectiveness and student progress

Facilitate long-range planning and continuous improvement efforts

Support innovation and expansion of social-emotional behavior supports across the region

Vision for effective and innovative programming that supports both behavioral and academic growth

Ability to build trust and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with staff, students, families, and community partners

Strong leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail and compliance requirements

Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic educational environment across the region

Why Choose Keystone AEA?

Collaborative, service‑driven environment focused on supporting students and school districts

Opportunity to lead and shape impactful programming for students with complex needs

Strong emphasis on evidence‑based practices and continuous improvement

Supportive team of educators, specialists, and administrators

Meaningful work that directly improves outcomes for students and strengthens systems of support specially designed instruction, and positive outcomes for diverse learners

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