Special Education Teacher

Description Special Education Teacher Job Description Employment Type: Full-time | Exempt Reports To: Site Administrator Mission: The mission of our program is to provide our students with a high quality of education that offers instruction in both academic and social/emotional realms. The purpose of the academy is to provide students with social/emotional/behavioral issues a state-of-the-art therapeutic day program.

Through hands-on instructional experiences, as well as a therapeutic approach in art, music, and movement, the program is designated to meet all of the needs of this diverse student population.

Job Summary

The Special Education Teacher is responsible for delivering individualized instruction and managing a structured, supportive learning environment for students. They develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, and integrate therapeutic strategies into daily lessons to support both academic progress and social-emotional growth.

The teacher uses evidence-based practices, behavior management techniques, and differentiated instruction to meet diverse student needs, while fostering a safe, respectful, and engaging classroom atmosphere that promotes resilience, self-regulation, and long-term success.

Essential functions

of the job may include but are not limited to the following: Plans and implements research-based specialized instruction to address the instructional goals and objectives contained within each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). Develops and implements annual IEPs in compliance with state and federal regulations, ensuring meaningful collaboration with parents, related service providers, and team members.

Assesses student progress through ongoing data collection and analysis, using data to inform instruction, measure growth, and determine the need for additional support or adjustments to instructional techniques. Employs a variety of teaching strategies, methods, and principles of learning to support the diverse academic and behavioral needs of students.

Works cooperatively with a multidisciplinary team to develop and refine instructional goals, behavior supports, and therapeutic strategies tailored to individual student needs. Coordinates and ensures the delivery of all special education services as outlined in each student’s IEP. Maintains accurate and up-to-date documentation, including data tracking, progress reports, behavior logs, and compliance-related paperwork.

Creates a positive, structured, and individualized learning environment that fosters academic, emotional, and behavioral growth. Implements and monitors classroom behavior management systems aligned with individual student behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and school-wide expectations. Participates in Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and contributes to the development and implementation of effective Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).

Utilizes trauma-informed practices and de-escalation strategies to support students with significant emotional and behavioral needs. Serves as the primary contact for parents/guardians and maintains regular, professional communication regarding student progress and needs. Provides supervision, direction, and constructive feedback to educational assistants and paraprofessionals as assigned.

Collaborates closely with related service providers (e.g., social workers, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists) to integrate therapeutic support into academic instruction. Completes all school, and state reporting requirements accurately and in a timely manner. Engages in ongoing professional development to remain current on best practices in special education, trauma-informed care, behavior management, and instructional methods.

Other duties, as assigned.

Benefits

Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Life Insurance 401(k) Match Paid Holidays Paid Time Off Requirements License/Certification: Illinois State Board of Education LBS1 OR Early Childhood Special Education License (Required) Other Requirements: Background Check, Physical Exam