Alternative Education Teacher

Position: Alternative Education Teacher (2 positions)
Position Type:
Elementary School Teaching

Date Posted:
3/24/2026

Location:
Hazel Crest School District 152.5

Date Available:
08/03/2026
Alternative Education Teacher
Position Purpose
The Alternative Education Teacher provides instruction, support, and structure for students who, for academic, behavioral, social-emotional, or disciplinary reasons, are unable to succeed in a regular classroom environment. The teacher works in a temporary or specialized placement (alternative education program) to help students re-engage, meet educational goals, and transition successfully back to the regular or most appropriate setting.

Essential Functions

• Teach individual students and small groups using differentiated instruction tailored to their academic level, learning style, and behavioral needs.
• Develop and implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP), Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), or Alternative Education Plans as required.
• Reinforce instruction in core academic subjects (e.g., reading, writing, math, social studies, science) and assist in remedial or enrichment activities.
• Use a variety of instructional strategies, including non-traditional methods, to engage students.
• Use behavior management strategies to maintain a safe, positive, and orderly classroom environment; set clear behavior expectations, teach them, check for understanding, and address behavior issues fairly and consistently.
• Collaborate with other educators, counselors, administrators, parents/guardians, and support staff to coordinate services and supports for students (academic, social, emotional).
• Monitor student progress, conduct regular assessments, analyze data, and adjust instruction accordingly.
• Maintain accurate records (attendance, grades, behavior, communication) in compliance with district policies and state law.
• Participate in professional development; keep current with research and best practices in alternative education, social-emotional learning, classroom management, restorative practices, etc.
• Create a classroom culture that supports positive self-concepts, trust, respect, and helps students build resilience and responsibility.
• Supervise student activities, transitions, and supervision outside of the classroom as needed.
• Assist with or lead re-entry or transition planning when students return to a regular classroom environment.

Additional Duties
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiates instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of elementary school curriculum and concepts.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Working Conditions

• May work in specialized classrooms outside of mainstream settings, often with smaller class sizes.
• Students may have more frequent behavior or social-emotional challenges; may require de-escalation, restorative practices, and counseling coordination.
• Possible irregular schedule or adapted schedule based on program needs
• Collaboration with multiple staff (counselors, psychologists, paraprofessionals) more heavily than in some regular classrooms.

Qualifications Profile

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) or appropriate alternative/provisional teaching license endorsed for alternative education or the relevant subject area.
• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution; major or sufficient coursework in the content area of…