Elementary Teacher
Underwood Public School – Underwood, MN
Start Date: 2025–2026 School Year
Position: 1.0 FTE – 179-day contract
Salary: $49,198 – $82,172 (per Underwood Certified Staff Master Agreement)
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Position Summary:
Underwood Public School is seeking an enthusiastic educator to join our elementary teaching team. We’re looking for a candidate who thrives in a dynamic environment and is committed to fostering a love of learning, strong literacy skills, and effective communication among students. The ideal candidate will possess excellent collaboration, communication, and interpersonal skills to engage meaningfully with students, families, and staff.
Qualifications:
Required:
Bachelor’s degree
Eligible for a Minnesota teaching license in Elementary Education (through the MN Department of Education)
Preferred:
Experience teaching in an elementary classroom
Completion of Year 1 of LETRS training
Experience using data to drive instruction and support student growth
Training or experience in differentiated instruction and inclusive practices
Strong background in literacy and/or math interventions
Experience working with diverse learners, including students receiving special education or English language services
Salary & Benefits:
Salary range: $49,198 – $82,172 (aligned to Underwood Education Association Master Agreement)
Health, dental, and life insurance
Paid sick and personal leave
TRA pension with optional 403(b) contributions
Ongoing professional development opportunities
Note: Coaching and advisory roles may also be available for interested candidates.
About Underwood & Otter Tail County:
Located in the heart of Otter Tail County, Underwood blends small-town charm with year-round outdoor adventure. With over 1,000 nearby lakes, residents enjoy exceptional access to fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming. Miles of scenic trails provide options for hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Underwood is also a short drive from Fergus Falls, offering convenient access to shopping, dining, and healthcare, while maintaining the peaceful pace of rural life.
Application Process:
Please submit the following materials via email to Principal Chad Gilbertson at cgilbertson@underwood.k12.mn.us:
Cover letter
Resume and/or
Completed Underwood School District 550 application: employment application
Three current letters of recommendation
College transcripts
Copy of valid MN teaching license
Questions?
Contact:
Chad Gilbertson, Principal
📧 cgilbertson@underwood.k12.mn.us
📞 218-826-6101, ext. 105
✅ Position open until filled. Early applications are encouraged.
High School & Elementary Special Education Paraprofessional
Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:50 AM – 3:05 PM
Start Date: August 26, 2025
Wage: $14.64–$17.44/hour (based on experience per 2024–25 wage scale)
Benefits Include:
$8,400 district contribution toward health insurance
Paid time off (sick and personal leave)
Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA) pension plan
403(b) retirement plan with employer match
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Position Overview
Underwood Public School is seeking a Special Education Paraprofessional to support students in both our elementary and high school programs. The ideal candidate will work closely with students who have varying needs, providing instructional, behavioral, and functional support during the school day.
Primary Responsibilities
Support students in academic, behavioral, and emotional development as outlined in IEPs
Assist with instruction in classrooms, small groups, or 1:1 settings
Promote a safe, structured learning environment
Supervise students during lunch, recess, transitions, and transportation
Support students with self-care tasks when needed
Collaborate with teaching and support staff to monitor student progress
Uphold confidentiality and professionalism in all settings
Qualifications & Skills
High school diploma or equivalent required
Must meet (or be willing to obtain) one of the following:
Associate’s degree or higher
At least 60 college credits
Passing score on the ParaPro Assessment
Experience working with children or individuals with disabilities preferred
Ability to assist students both physically and academically
Strong communication and collaboration skills
Calm, flexible, dependable, and professional demeanor
Physical Demands & Work Environment
Active role requiring walking, kneeling, standing, and quick response
Work takes place in classrooms, hallways, playgrounds, and occasionally off-campus job sites
May involve lifting or supporting students and responding to behavioral escalations
Why Join Underwood?
Supportive, student-centered school culture
Collaborative and positive staff environment
Meaningful work that directly impacts student growth
Competitive pay and strong benefits package
Opportunities for professional development and growth
How to Apply
Please submit the following application materials:
Cover letter
Any applicable college transcripts
Send materials or direct questions to:
Chad Gilbertson, Principal
📧 cgilbertson@underwood.k12.mn.us
📞 218-826-6101, ext. 105
✅ Position open until filled. Early applications are encouraged.
Food Service Specialist
Position Type: Part-Time (School Year Schedule)
Schedule: Monday–Friday | 7:45 AM – 12:45 PM
Wage: $14.23–$16.00/hour (based on experience)
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Position Overview
Underwood Public Schools is seeking a dependable and detail-oriented individual to join our kitchen team. This role plays a key part in supporting daily school operations and contributing to a positive experience for students and staff. If you enjoy working in a school setting and being part of a supportive environment, we’d love to hear from you.
Primary Responsibilities
Serve as the point person for the daily lunch service program
Verify student PIN numbers in the food service system
Assist the Food Service Director with meal prep and other kitchen-related duties as needed
Maintain cleanliness, safety, and food handling standards
Qualifications
Strong attention to detail and a positive, team-first attitude
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Basic computer skills preferred (training will be provided)
Prior food service experience is a plus, but not required
Why Work at Underwood?
Supportive and welcoming school environment
Opportunity to make a daily impact on student well-being
Regular daytime hours aligned with the school calendar
How to Apply
Please submit the following application materials:
Cover letter
Any applicable college transcripts
Send materials or direct questions to:
Jeff Wilson, Superintendent
📧 jwilson@underwood.k12.mn.us
📞 218-826-6101, ext. 104
Substitute Positions
SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS/PARAPROFESSIONALS
Underwood School is currently accepting applications for substitute teachers and substitute paraprofessionals. Please send a cover letter and a completed employment application to:
Chad Gilbertson, Principal
🏫 Underwood Public School, 100 Southern Ave E, Underwood, MN 56586
📧 cgilbertson@underwood.k12.mn.us
📞 218-826-6101, ext. 105
SUBSTITUTE CUSTODIANS
Underwood School is currently accepting applications for substitute custodians (could include evening shift). Please send a completed employment application or any questions to:
Dave Thieschafer, Head of Building and Grounds
🏫 Underwood Public School, 100 Southern Ave E, Underwood, MN 56586
📧 dthieschafer@underwood.k12.mn.us
📞 218-826-6101, ext. 404
FOOD SERVICE SUBSTITUTES
Underwood School is currently accepting applications for substitute food service workers. Please send a completed employment application or any questions to:
Dawn Hess, Food Service Manager
🏫 Underwood Public School, 100 Southern Ave E, Underwood, MN 56586
📧 dhess@underwood.k12.mn.us
📞 218-826-6101, ext. 155