Teacher, Special Education Teacher

Teacher — Champaign, IL

Excel Prep is a mission-driven private program in Illinois dedicated to serving neurodiverse children through structured, research-based instruction. Our work focuses on prioritizing the academic and social success of neurodiverse learners. We are a professional, agile organization committed to delivering high-quality academic and therapeutic programming that supports meaningful learning outcomes.

Location:

Champaign, IL (onsite at Excel Prep Champaign campus)

Program scope:
PreK–8 Academic Program and Clinical ABA Program (Ages 3–13)

Core approach:
Direct Instruction, Precision Teaching, behavior science research, with Occupational Therapy prioritized alongside ABA

The Role:

Teacher — Champaign, IL

What you'll do

• Deliver explicit instruction using Direct Instruction and Precision Teaching protocols for core academic skills.
• Implement individualized, data-driven instruction plans aligned with each learner's goals.
• Collect, analyze, and report progress data; monitor mastery and generalization of skills.
• Collaborate with Occupational Therapy and ABA teams to support sensory-motor development and language/behavior goals.
• Maintain accurate documentation (lesson plans, progress notes, IEP accommodations as applicable).
• Communicate regularly with families about progress, opportunities, and supports at home.
• Create an inclusive, engaging classroom environment that supports varied neurodiverse profiles.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and contribute to program refinement.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Education or Special Education (Illinois teaching license or eligibility; LBS1 strongly preferred)
• Demonstrated experience or training in Direct Instruction and/or Precision Teaching
• Passion for and experience with neurodiverse learners and structured, data-driven instruction
• Strong collaboration and communication skills; ability to work with therapists, families, and a multidisciplinary team
• Ability to collect and interpret data to inform individualized instruction and progress reporting

Preferred

• Illinois Special Education license (LBS1/LBS2) or willingness to pursue
• Experience with ABA concepts; willingness to work under the supervision of a BCBA/ABA-trained team
• Familiarity with Occupational Therapy principles and sensory-motor considerations
• Multilingual abilities (e.g., Spanish or other languages) a plus

Work Environment & Schedule

• Full-time position
• On-site in Champaign, IL campuses
• Collaborative, team-oriented culture with supportive supervisors and coaching
• Small class sizes; emphasis on high-quality instructional delivery and learner outcomes
• Occasional after-school or family engagement opportunities as needed

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision)
• Retirement plan options (401k)
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development and coaching opportunities
• Room for growth and leadership pathways within a mission-driven organization

How to Apply

• Submit the following to careers with the subject line "Teacher – Champaign":
• Resume
• Cover letter detailing your relevant experience and teaching philosophy
• Brief statement of your approach to data-driven instruction and accommodations for neurodiverse learners
• References (optional at initial submission)
• Final date to receive applications:
  Open until filled (priority review for applications received by 02/20/2026).

Equal Opportunity

Excel Prep is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.