Special Education Teacher (Instructional Strategist I - Mathematics Co-Teacher)

CERTIFIED SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER (2025-2026 School Year) 

Decorah High School

Instructional Strategist I - Mathematics Co-Teacher

Position Type: Certified, Full-Time Contract

Location: Decorah High School (Decorah, IA)

Position Overview

Decorah High School seeks a dedicated and collaborative Special Education Teacher for the 2025-2026 school year. This position offers a unique opportunity to join one of Iowa’s top-ranked schools, where inclusivity, academic rigor, and a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of all learners are foundational to student success.

As a Special Education Teacher, you will be vital in supporting students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in co-taught high school mathematics courses. Partnering with general education teachers, you will provide targeted instruction and accommodations to ensure students access rigorous, grade-level math content. Your work will emphasize developing foundational math skills, problem-solving strategies, and confidence in mathematics. Using evidence-based practices, personalized interventions, and a student-centered approach, you will help students overcome challenges and achieve their academic goals.

Why Decorah High School?

• Educational Excellence: Ranked consistently among Iowa's top five high schools by U.S. News & World Report, we earned our second National Blue Ribbon Schools Award in 2024, reflecting our dedication to academic achievement and equity.
• Inclusive Practices: We embrace a non-categorical approach to special education, focusing on each student's strengths and unique needs. Our inclusive classrooms ensure all students receive the support and opportunities to thrive academically and socially.
• Holistic Support: Beyond academics, we prioritize the social-emotional well-being of every student. Our counselors and teaching staff collaborate to foster a safe and supportive learning environment that nurtures the whole child.
• Extracurricular Excellence: With over 85% of students participating in sports, clubs, or activities—including Special Olympics and Unified Champion programs—Decorah High School offers a vibrant community where every student feels connected and valued.

At Decorah High School, our commitment to inclusivity is deeply ingrained in our policies, practices, and culture. By collaborating with colleagues, leveraging technology, and implementing data-driven interventions, you will play an integral role in ensuring all students with IEPs succeed in mathematics and beyond. This dedication to individualized support and high expectations sets Decorah High School apart as an exceptional place to teach, learn, and grow.

Positional Responsibilities

Instructional Support

• Co-teach mathematics courses aligned with Iowa Core standards and grade-level expectations.
• Develop and implement accommodations, modifications, and instructional strategies to support students with IEPs.
• Provide small-group and one-on-one interventions for students needing additional support in math.
• Collaborate with general education teachers to deliver engaging, inclusive, and differentiated instruction.

Student Growth

• Monitor and assess student progress toward IEP goals, adjusting strategies and supports as needed.
• Foster positive relationships with students to build confidence, motivation, and engagement.
• Communicate regularly with families to ensure consistency and alignment between home and school support.

Collaboration and Professionalism

• Participate actively in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to align teaching practices and interventions.
• Work collaboratively with paraprofessionals, counselors, and administrators to support student success.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all student, family, and staff interactions.

Professional Development

• Engage in ongoing training to enhance knowledge of special education practices, co-teaching strategies, and evidence-based math interventions.
• Contribute to the school’s culture of continuous improvement by sharing successful strategies with colleagues.

Qualifications

Required:

• Valid Iowa teaching license (or willingness to obtain).
• 5-12 Instructional Strategist I: Mild/Moderate (261) Endorsement (or willingness to obtain).
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and collaboration.

Preferred:

• Prior co-teaching experience, ideally in mathematics
• 5-12 Mathematics (143) Endorsement (or willingness to obtain).
• Familiarity with technology integration to enhance math instruction and interventions.

How to Apply

Decorah High School values diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. If you are passionate about supporting students with disabilities and are ready to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply.

To Apply: Please email your resume and cover letter to Brad Hurst, Decorah High School Principal, at brad.hurst@decorah.school.

Application Deadline: Open until filled

Brad Hurst
Principal
Decorah High School
100 Claiborne Drive
Decorah, IA 52101
(563) 382-3643