Middle School Special Education Teacher | Cedar Rapids Prep

Middle School Special Education Teacher | Cedar Rapids Prep 

About Cedar Rapids Prep

Cedar Rapids Prep is a tuition-free, college-preparatory school that opened in August 2025, initially serving 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, with plans to expand through 12th grade. The school emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and personal ownership, providing a supportive community where students are paired with dedicated advisors to ensure their success. Cedar Rapids Prep offers a private school experience without the cost, featuring top-notch facilities, student uniforms, and rigorous academics. As part of the Opportunity Education Network, the school aims to empower students to lead ambitious and purpose-driven lives.

About the Role: Middle School Special Education Teacher

The Middle School 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 Cedar Rapids 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 Cedar Rapid Prep’s mission of excellence and joy for students, staff, and families.

Compensation

Salary is currently budgeted in a range competitive with local district expectations. 

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.