Special Education Coordinator

Job Description New Leader Academy Streamwood, IL Position: Special Education Coordinator Salary: $80,000 – $120,000 (commensurate with experience and qualifications) Reports To: Principal Employment Type: Full-Time, 12-Month Position About New Leader Academy New Leader Academy is a specialized therapeutic day school serving students with emotional, behavioral, mental health, and autism spectrum needs. We provide a supportive, trauma-informed learning environment where students receive integrated academic instruction, therapeutic services, and social‑emotional skill development. Our mission is to help every student become a confident, capable leader in their own life. Position Summary We are seeking a dedicated, experienced, and compassionate educational leader to serve as Special Education Coordinator. The Special Education Coordinator will work closely with the Principal to support all aspects of daily school operations, ensure high‑quality instruction and therapeutic programming, maintain regulatory compliance, and create a positive school culture that prioritizes student growth and staff development. ISBE Director of Special Education certification required. Key Responsibilities Assist the Principal with daily school operations and decision-making Support curriculum development, implementation, and continuous improvement of academic and therapeutic programs (with emphasis on autism and behavioral needs) Lead staff training, professional development, and coaching initiatives Ensure compliance with all state, federal, and local regulations (ISBE, IDEA, etc.) Ensure IEP compliance and attend IEP meetings Oversee staffing needs, including recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and performance management Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and support staff to create individualized student success plans Manage student behavior support systems and crisis intervention protocols Monitor and analyze student academic and behavioral data to drive improvement Build strong relationships with families, community partners, and external service providers Support a safe, inclusive, and therapeutic school climate for all students and staff Handle disciplinary matters and due process procedures as needed Perform additional duties as assigned by the Principal Qualifications lllinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with Director of Special Education Endorsement (required) Illinois PEL with Administrative Endorsement (Type 75 or Principal Endorsement) (required) Master’s Degree in Education, Educational Leadership, Special Education, or related field (preferred) Minimum of 3–5 years of successful teaching or clinical experience, with significant experience working with students with autism spectrum disorders, emotional/behavioral disorders, and other special education needs Prior administrative or leadership experience in a therapeutic or special education setting strongly preferred Strong knowledge of special education law (IDEA), autism-specific interventions, trauma-informed practices, and restorative approaches Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills Ability to remain calm and decisive in challenging situations Passion for working with students who have significant emotional, behavioral, and autism-related needs What We Offer Competitive salary ($80K–$120K) Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, retirement) Professional development opportunities Supportive leadership team and collaborative work environment Meaningful work that changes students’ lives every day #J-18808-Ljbffr New Leader Academy