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Special Education Teacher

Keystone Area Education Agency, Iowa, LA, United States


Special Education Teacher – Specialized Therapeutic Behavior Program (Anticipated Opening 2026-2027)
Keystone Area Education Agency is anticipating multiple openings for Special Education Teachers within a Specialized Therapeutic Behavior Program beginning with the 2026–2027 school year. These positions are currently under development and are pending final program approval.

We are seeking dedicated educators who are passionate about supporting students with significant social‑emotional, behavioral, and/or cognitive needs. This role offers a unique opportunity to provide both direct instruction and intensive support to help students successfully transition back to their resident school districts.

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
Special Education Teachers in this program provide specially designed instruction and behavior intervention for students with complex needs. This role extends beyond the classroom, including collaboration with school districts, reintegration planning, and ongoing support to ensure student success across educational environments.

This position emphasizes strong instructional practices, behavior expertise, and meaningful collaboration with families, districts, and AEA staff.

Qualifications

Iowa Teaching License with Instructional Strategist II (Behavior Disorders/Learning Disabilities) endorsement

Experience in behavior management and working with at‑risk student populations preferred

BCBA certification preferred but not required

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

Compensation & Contract Details

193-day contract

Starting salary: $65,000, based on education and experience

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

Key Responsibilities

Provide specially designed instruction (SDI) to meet academic and behavioral needs of students

Develop and implement individualized instructional plans aligned to Iowa Core Standards

Utilize assessment data and progress monitoring to inform instructional decisions

Design and implement behavior interventions using evidence-based strategies

Collaborate with resident school districts on curriculum, instruction, and student supports

Develop and support student reintegration plans, including providing on-site district support

Continue consultation and support following student transition back to the resident district

Participate in IEP, FBA, and BIP development in collaboration with AEA and district teams

Engage in ongoing professional learning and program development

Strong relationship-building skills with students, families, and school teams

Effective communication and collaboration skills

Ability to manage a classroom environment with complex behavioral needs

Professional judgment and ability to maintain compliance with documentation requirements

Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic and evolving program

Ability to lead a classroom team and support continuous improvement through data

Why Choose Keystone AEA?

Collaborative, service-driven environment focused on student success

Opportunity to be part of a developing, innovative program

Strong emphasis on evidence-based practices and continuous improvement

Supportive team of educators, specialists, and administrators

Meaningful work that directly impacts students and strengthens systems of support

These postings are intended to identify and connect with qualified candidates for potential upcoming opportunities. Positions are contingent upon final approval and program implementation decisions. Applicants will be notified as additional information becomes available and as the hiring process moves forward.

If you have any additional questions about joining our team, please contact Teresa Bushman, Human Resources Associate, at b@aea1.k12.ia.us or (563)241-3036.

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