Special Education Teacher (26-27 School Year) | Des Moines Prep

Des Moines Prep•Des Moines, IA

40d

About The Position

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. 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.

Requirements

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
Strong skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Nice To Haves

2+ years of experience working with students with special education needs is preferred.
Proven track record of student achievement results.
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.

Responsibilities

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.
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.
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.
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.