Education Jobs 2026 (Now Hiring) – Smart Auto Apply

Special Education Teacher | Des Moines Prep 

About Des Moines Prep

Des Moines Prep is a new growing public charter school in downtown Des Moines committed to achieving exceptional outcomes for students: where they own and drive their learning and love their school experience. Our model combines rigorous college preparatory academics and a robust student-centered approach to instruction. We believe students learn best when they are known well, challenged deeply, and supported fully.

Des Moines Prep opened in 2025 and serves grades 8–9, expanding to serve grades 7–12 in the coming years. Our school emphasizes agency, purpose, and preparation for the future, giving students opportunities to explore college and career pathways and pursue their ambitions in a supportive, close-knit environment.

About the Role: Special Education Teacher

The Special Education Teacher provides individualized instruction, support, and advocacy to help students with disabilities reach their academic and functional goals. This role works closely with families, general education teachers, and support staff to create inclusive learning environments and implement effective, data-driven interventions. The teacher develops and monitors IEPs, ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, and fosters a positive, student-centered classroom. With patience, creativity, and a commitment to equity, this educator helps every learner grow to their full potential.

Instruction Delivery & Curriculum Development (70%)

• Spearhead the  implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for the students and monitor their progress.
• Provide targeted small-group and one-on-one instruction aligned to each student’s learning goals.
• Support students in inclusive classrooms through strong co-teaching and collaboration with general education teachers.
• Use evidence-based strategies, accommodations, and modifications to meet a wide range of learning needs.
• Create engaging, student-centered lessons that build confidence, independence, and self-advocacy skills.
• Collect and analyze academic and behavior data to track progress and adjust services as needed.

Student Engagement & Support (20%)

• Support students with emotional or behavior concerns and assist them in developing appropriate social skills.
• Build strong relationships with students, fostering a culture of high expectations, accountability, and support.
• Support in providing differentiated instruction and targeted interventions to ensure all students succeed, including students reading below grade level.

Collaboration & Professional Growth (5%)

• Work closely with fellow teachers and school leadership to align curriculum, assessment, and instructional strategies.
• Participate in school-wide professional development to continuously refine instructional practice, including regular data and assessment reflection cycles.
• Engage in feedback cycles with the Dean of Academics and Principal to improve teaching effectiveness.

Family & Community Engagement (5%)

• Communicate regularly with families about student progress, celebrating successes and addressing challenges proactively.
• Participate in school events, family conferences, and outreach efforts to build strong relationships with families and the community.

Ideal Candidate Experiences

• Qualified candidates must have the following:
• Must hold a valid Iowa teaching license with a special-education endorsement (Instructional Strategist I or Instructional Strategist II)
• Completion of an approved special education preparation program — including required coursework and student-teaching experience in a recognized special-education classroom at the appropriate grade level
• Demonstrated knowledge of special education foundations, characteristics of disabilities, behavior-management techniques, differentiated instruction, and inclusive practices
• 2+ years of experience working with students with special education needs is preferred. 
• Strong skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Proven track record of student achievement results.

Ideal Candidate Traits

• Excited to join a founding team and shape the future of Des Moines Prep.
• Strong background or experience with IEP development, differentiated instruction, and collaborative teaching/co-teaching models.
• Ability to work effectively with general-education staff, support staff, and families.
• Commitment to culturally responsive teaching and serving diverse learners.
• Good communication, data-tracking, and organizational skills.
• Willingness to participate in ongoing professional development — especially around inclusive practices, behavior strategies, and special ed legislation/standards.
• Committed to Des Moines Prep’s mission of excellence and joy for students, staff, and families.

Compensation & Benefits

• Retirement Plan: Enrollment in the Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS)
• Competitive Salary: Salary is budgeted within a range that aligns with local district expectations
• Professional Development: Access to exceptional weekly coaching with our dedicated Dean of Academics
• Wellness & Workspace Amenities: Suite of sustainability and wellness supports, including a teacher’s lounge with a massage chair, cold brew on tap for all staff, and ample private workspaces for focused planning
• State-of-the-Art Facility: Work in a newly renovated and meticulously maintained school building designed to foster a calm, inspiring, and innovative environment

Non-Discrimination Statement

Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.