Instructional Specialist

Focus Consulting & Training, LLC

Position Type: 1099 Independent Contractor

Schedule: Full-Time or Part-Time Opportunities Available

Location: Chicagoland Suburbs and Surrounding Rural Communities (Travel Required)

About Focus Consulting & Training, LLC

Focus Consulting & Training, LLC partners with school districts and educational organizations to provide high-quality instructional coaching, behavior support & consult, special education support, professional development, and systems-level consultation. Our mission is to empower educators and build sustainable practices that improve student outcomes through collaboration, evidence-based strategies, and individualized support.

We are seeking passionate and experienced Instructional Specialists to join our growing consultant team. This role is ideal for professionals who enjoy working across multiple districts, building relationships, and supporting educators through coaching and training.

Position Summary

The Instructional Specialist serves as a consultant to school districts, providing direct support to teachers, administrators, and educational teams to increase student support and positive outcomes. This position focuses on strengthening instructional practices, supporting special education programming, and delivering engaging professional development aligned with district needs.

This is a highly collaborative role requiring flexibility, strong communication skills, and a passion for helping educators create successful learning environments for all students.

Primary Responsibilities

Instructional Coaching & Consultation

• Provide individualized and team-based instructional coaching to teachers and educational staff.
• Support the implementation of evidence-based instructional and classroom management strategies.
• Collaborate with administrators and multidisciplinary teams to improve instructional systems and student outcomes.
• Observe classrooms and provide constructive feedback and actionable recommendations.
• Assist districts in implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and inclusive educational practices.

Special Education Support

• Provide consultation related to special education programming and instructional accommodations.
• Support staff in understanding and implementing IEP goals and specialized instructional strategies.
• Collaborate with school teams to address academic and behavioral barriers to student success.
• Assist with the development and implementation of intervention plans and data collection systems.
  

Professional Development & Training

• Design and facilitate engaging professional development workshops for educators and administrators.
• Deliver training on topics such as:
• Differentiated instruction
• Classroom management
• Behavior supports
• Inclusive practices
• MTSS frameworks
• Data-based decision making
• Special education compliance and implementation
• Create training materials and resources that support ongoing staff development.
  

Data & Collaboration

• Collect and analyze educational and instructional data to inform recommendations.
• Maintain accurate documentation and consultation notes.
• Communicate effectively with district leaders, teachers, and families when appropriate.
• Participate in team meetings and collaborative planning with Focus Consulting & Training staff.
  

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Special Education, or related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in education.
• Strong knowledge of instructional best practices and classroom management.
• Experience working with students receiving special education services.
• Excellent presentation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a flexible schedule.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Willingness to travel throughout the Chicago suburbs and surrounding rural communities.

Preferred

• Master's degree in Education, Special Education, Educational Leadership, or related field.
• Experience as an instructional coach, curriculum specialist, special education teacher, interventionist, or educational consultant.
• Knowledge of MTSS, behavior support systems, and data-driven instructional practices.
• Experience facilitating adult learning and professional development.
• Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) or equivalent certification.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly or daily consultant rates based on experience.
• Flexible scheduling with full-time and part-time opportunities available.
• Opportunity to work with diverse school districts and educational teams.
• Professional growth through collaboration with experienced consultants and specialists.
• Independent contractor (1099) position.
  

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is an energetic, solutions-oriented educator who thrives on collaboration and enjoys supporting schools through coaching, training, and innovative problem-solving. They are comfortable working in a variety of educational settings and are passionate about making a meaningful impact on both educators and students.

Join Focus Consulting & Training, LLC and help schools build stronger systems, stronger educators, and stronger outcomes for students.