Make a Difference. Support Students. Grow Your Career. Join the Keystone AEA Team.
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
- Bachelor’s degree in Education required; Master’s degree preferred
- 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 (anticipated)
- 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 (anticipated)
- 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
Skills & Leadership Attributes
- 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
Important Information
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.
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.