About this role
The Ankeny Community School District (CSD) is renowned for its excellence across academics, athletics, the arts, and various activities. Situated in central Iowa, just 6 miles from Des Moines, Ankeny CSD caters to over 12,800 students from preschool through 12th grade, making it the 7th largest district in the state. With a strong reputation for its commitment to student success and a competitive salary and benefits package, Ankeny CSD is a standout choice for both educators and families seeking a high-quality educational environment. JDE: 4.00 Preschool Teacher Purpose Statement At Ankeny Schools, the Preschool Teacher is at the heart of our mission to help our youngest learners learn, grow, and succeed. This role is dedicated to instructing children in activities designed to promote the social, physical, and intellectual growth necessary for a successful transition to primary school. Our teachers meet the high standards of the Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program while providing specialized services for 3- and 4-year-olds as outlined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEP). This career offers the opportunity to collaborate with a dedicated team of educators, professional staff, and administrators who are committed to innovation, inclusion, and the foundational development of every child. _________________________________________________________________________ Job Title: Preschool/Early Childhood Special Education Teacher Salary: See Negotiated Teacher Salary Schedule Benefit Summary: C Reports To: Building Principal Wage/Hour Status: Exempt Qualifications Experience:
• Prior teaching experience preferred, but not required
Education & Licensure:
• Bachelor's degree
• Iowa BOEE License for Preschool/Early Childhood
Required Skills:
• Strong instructional planning and delivery aligned to district curriculum and learning goals.
• Ability to use assessment data to guide instruction and support student growth.
• Effective classroom management that fosters a positive, safe, and inclusive learning environment.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills with students, families, and colleagues.
• Ability to collaborate professionally and engage in continuous learning and improvement.
Essential Functions Instructional Design & Delivery: Guides student learning by delivering high-quality, specially designed instruction (SDI) aligned with the Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program and district goals. Uses assessment data to adjust teaching for both general education students and those with IEPs, ensuring all children acquire identified deficit skills to contribute to their overall development. Collaboration & Relationship Building: Partners with students, parents, colleagues, and community resources to foster positive relationships and a culture of high expectations. Encourages student creativity in art, music, and dramatic play while developing each student's awareness of their individual worth within their family and community. Student Learning & Assessment: Administers developmental testing and subject-specific assessments to evaluate student competency. Monitors progress toward behavioral, motor, and academic goals, providing consistent feedback to parents and administration to reinforce classroom goals in the home environment. Classroom Management & Environment: Creates a safe, effective, and inclusive learning environment through functional displays, interest centers, and positive behavioral management. Monitors students across various environments (classroom, playground, field trips) to ensure safety and a positive atmosphere for all maturation levels. Communication: Maintains timely, professional, and transparent communication regarding student progress and instructional programs. Responds to inquiries from a variety of sources to resolve issues and provide direction, ensuring parents and guardians are active partners in their child's success. Professional Responsibilities, Compliance & Development: Prepares and maintains accurate written materials, including IEPs, behavior logs, and anecdotal records. Participates in IEP and 504 meetings and reports incidents (e.g., suspected abuse) in accordance with state/federal laws and district policies. Actively engages in professional development to refine early childhood instructional practices. Attendance & Reliability: Demonstrates consistent and reliable attendance and punctuality, recognizing the importance of stability for young learners. Maintains instructional continuity to ensure students experience a predictable and supportive early childhood environment. Adherence to Iowa Teaching & Ethical Standards: Adheres to the Iowa Teaching Standards and Ethical Standards for Educators. Upholds student confidentiality, maintains professional boundaries, and acts in the best interest of students and the school community at all times. Other Functions
• Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned.
• Provide excellent customer service fostering a welcoming and approachable atmosphere.
• Work efficiently and independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate respect and professionalism in all interactions with colleagues, students, and families.
• Use positive and professional communication in all interactions.
• Adhere to safety protocols and policies established by the Ankeny Community School District to ensure the safety of oneself and others.
• Support District goals and objectives while adhering to all District policies, contributing to the overall success of the school community.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
Working Environment Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors The usual and customary methods of performing the position functions require the following physical demands: lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, climbing, reaching, driving, standing and walking. Working conditions may include extreme temperatures and humidity. Hazards may include exposure to communicable diseases. This position requires one to maintain emotional control under stress. Terms of Employment Work year established by the District; Salary according to schedule adopted annually. Clearances Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance Evaluation Job performance will be evaluated annually, as per district policies and procedures. The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.
Updated: April 30, 2026