Longterm Substitute Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Position Title: Long-Term Substitute Special Education Teacher (Beginning November 2026)

Location: United Community School District

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the School Principal and in collaboration with special education staff, the Long-Term Substitute Special Education Teacher will provide temporary instructional and student support services during the absence of a regular special education teacher, beginning approximately November 1, 2026. The successful candidate will provide a safe, supportive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment; implement established instructional plans and student supports; collaborate with teachers and support personnel; and promote the academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and functional growth of students with diverse learning needs.

Essential Functions

• Implements and follows established instructional plans, curriculum, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), behavior support plans, and other student support plans as appropriate.
• Provides individualized and small-group instruction and support based on student needs and established educational goals.
• Establishes and maintains a positive, structured, and inclusive learning environment that promotes student engagement, independence, and success.
• Differentiates instruction, assignments, materials, and learning activities to accommodate varying abilities, learning styles, and student needs.
• Collaborates with general education teachers, special education staff, paraprofessionals, administrators, families, and related service providers to support student learning and well-being.
• Provides appropriate academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and functional support to students.
• Monitors student progress and provides appropriate feedback, reinforcement, redirection, and support.
• Maintains appropriate documentation and student records in accordance with district, state, and federal requirements.
• Supports the implementation of IEP goals, accommodations, modifications, and other identified student supports under the direction of appropriate district staff.
• Participates in IEP meetings, team meetings, parent/guardian communication, and other student support activities as appropriate to the assignment.
• Maintains confidentiality regarding student records and information in accordance with district policies and applicable laws.
•  Promotes positive behavior, communication, social skills, independence, and appropriate peer relationships.
• Uses effective classroom management and student support strategies to maintain a safe and productive learning environment.
• Supervises students in classrooms, common areas, transitions, activities, and other assigned settings.
• Uses educational technology and district-supported systems to support instruction, communication, documentation, and student learning.
•  Participates in professional development, staff meetings, and other district activities as appropriate during the assignment.

Additional Duties

• Performs other duties as assigned by the Principal or Superintendent.
• Supports school routines, activities, events, and student services as appropriate.
• Performs duties consistent with the responsibilities of the position and the individual's Iowa licensure or authorization.

Equipment

Uses standard classroom and office equipment including computers, tablets, printers, copiers, telephones, and other instructional technology.

Travel Requirements

Occasional travel to district buildings or professional development opportunities may be required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of effective instructional practices and strategies for supporting students with diverse learning needs.
•  Familiarity with special education practices, individualized instruction, classroom management, and positive behavioral supports.
• Ability to establish positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively as part of an educational team.
• Ability to adapt instruction and support strategies to meet individual student needs.
• Strong organization, classroom management, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and protect confidential student information.
• Competency with educational technology and district-supported software platforms.
• Ability to remain flexible and responsive to changing student and classroom needs.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards

• Work is performed primarily in standard classroom and school settings.
• Must be able to meet the physical and mental demands associated with working with school-aged students, including the ability to move throughout the classroom and school environment and respond appropriately to student needs.
• May require occasional bending, lifting, standing, walking, or other physical activities associated with student supervision and support.
• Refer to the Summary of Physical, Sensory, and Environmental Requirements for further details.

Qualifications Profile

Certification/License

• Valid Iowa Substitute License or other Iowa license/authorization that provides authority for long-term substitute teaching is required.
• The individual must meet all Iowa Department of Education/Board of Educational Examiners requirements applicable to serving as a long-term substitute teacher.
• An Iowa Substitute Authorization alone does not qualify for this position because it does not provide long-term substitute authority.
• Candidates must maintain appropriate licensure/authorization throughout the assignment and comply with Iowa requirements for serving in a single substitute position for multiple consecutive weeks.
• Special education licensure/endorsement or experience working with students with disabilities is preferred but may not be required, depending upon the candidate's Iowa licensure/authorization and the specific duties of the assignment.

Education

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university preferred.
• Candidates with other educational backgrounds may be considered when permitted by Iowa licensure requirements and applicable district/state regulations.

Experience

• Prior experience working with students in a school, special education, or related educational setting preferred.
• Experience supporting students with diverse learning, behavioral, social-emotional, or developmental needs preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills, flexibility, dependability, and a commitment to supporting student success are highly valued.

FLSA Status: Exempt