Special Education Teacher (Pre K - 5th Gr

Special Education Teacher (Pre K
-5th)

Location:

District Wide

Employment Type:

Full-Time Work Days: 10-month position FLSA:
Exempt

Reports to:

Building Principal Salary/Benefits: $50,727 - $64,233 (Salary based on CBA negotiated terms with 10-year credit cap)

Job Summary:

The Special Education Teacher provides specialized instruction and support to elementary school students (grades pre k-5) with disabilities in accordance with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The teacher creates a structured, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment designed to promote each student's academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and functional growth. This position requires collaboration with families, general education staff, paraprofessionals, and related service providers to ensure all students receive a high-quality educational experience aligned with Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) standards and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Education, Certification, and Licensure:
Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) Valid LBS I Endorsement (Learning Behavior Specialist I) Appropriate middle school endorsement (Type 03/04 or equivalent) Demonstrated knowledge of adolescent development and instructional practices for students with disabilities Experience developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) aligned with IDEA and ISBE regulations Ability to collaborate effectively with general education teachers, paraprofessionals, related service providers, and families Strong communication, organizational, and documentation skills

Experience:

Prior experience teaching students with disabilities in elementary school settings preferred Experience working with diverse populations and implementing inclusive classroom models Familiarity with behavior intervention strategies, PBIS, and restorative practices Experience collaborating with related service providers (OT, PT, SLP, Social Worker) Experience using assistive technology and academic intervention strategies a plus

Essential Duties and Specific Responsibilities:
Provide individualized and small group instruction to students with identified special needs in inclusive and/or self-contained settings Design and implement standards-based, evidence-based instructional activities aligned with Illinois Learning Standards Conduct ongoing data collection and progress monitoring to inform instruction and report student growth Develop, implement, and review IEPs in collaboration with multidisciplinary team members and families Differentiate instruction to support diverse learning styles and abilities, including students with learning disabilities, emotional/behavioral needs, and other exceptionalities Collaborate with general education staff to promote inclusion and support Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) practices Use data to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly Administer and interpret formal and informal assessments Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusion and co-teaching models Maintain accurate and compliant documentation for IEPs, progress monitoring, and service logs Facilitate and participate in IEP meetings, including annual reviews and re-evaluations Participate in problem-solving teams, eligibility meetings, and IEP conferences Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and district special education procedures and timelines Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress and classroom activities Support students in developing academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and functional skills necessary for success and transition readiness Utilize positive behavior supports (PBIS) and proactive strategies to promote engagement and independence Attend staff meetings, professional development, and school events as required Perform other duties as assigned

Skills and Abilities:

Strong understanding of adolescent development and learning needs Ability to differentiate instruction to meet a variety of learning styles and ability levels Proficiency in data-driven instruction and progress monitoring tools Knowledge of assistive technology and adaptive supports Ability to manage challenging behaviors using positive and proactive strategies Strong written and verbal communication skills Demonstrated ability to foster inclusive classroom practices Capacity to maintain accurate and timely records, reports, and documentation Strong understanding of special education laws and procedures (IDEA, IEP development) Knowledge of middle school curriculum and adolescent development

Other

Skills and Abilities:

Patience, empathy, and flexibility in working with students and families Strong communication and active listening skills Ability to handle confidential information responsibly Organizational skills for managing documentation, schedules, and compliance timelines Commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive classroom environment Willingness to…