Lead with Purpose. Support Students. Strengthen Systems. Join the Keystone AEA Team.
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
Skills & Leadership Attributes
- 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
Important Information
This posting is intended to identify and connect with qualified candidates for a potential upcoming opportunity. The position is contingent upon final approval and program implementation decisions. Applicants will be notified as additional information becomes available and as the hiring process moves forward.
The Quick Apply option requires a Google account. If you do not have one, click here for directions to set one up, or email your resume and cover letter to jobs@aea1.k12.ia.us.
If you have any additional questions about joining our team, please contact Teresa Bushman, Human Resources Associate, at tbushman@aea1.k12.ia.us or (563)241-3036.