Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher (LBS1) - Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School (O-School) Chicago, IL | Full-Time | $65,000-$85,000 + Bonus Make a Meaningful Difference Every Day Join the Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School ( O-School ) and teach in a therapeutic, relationship-centered environment serving students with emotional disabilities, autism, and complex behavioral and mental health needs. If you're passionate about inclusive education, collaboration, and whole-child development, this is an opportunity to do deeply impactful work alongside a highly supportive team. Why Join O-School? A Therapeutic, Team-Based Environment At O-School, you're never teaching alone. Our model is intentionally designed for support, collaboration, and student success. 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio supporting highly tailored, student-centered instruction Strong classroom teams including: Co-Teachers Teacher Assistants 1:1 Instructional Aides Crisis Intervention Specialists Interdisciplinary collaboration with clinicians, therapists, and behavioral specialists A structured, trauma-informed, and relationship-based approach For over 100 years, O-School has provided innovative educational and therapeutic services to students ages 8-22 in a safe, nurturing environment. Compensation & Benefits Salary: $65,000-$85,000/year based on experience and credentials Bonus: Eligibility for performance and/or retention bonuses Benefits: Health: Medical, dental, and vision insurance (effective Day 1) Financial: 403(b) with Roth option; HSA/FSA; company-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance Time Off: Up to 7 weeks of paid school breaks annually 6 personal days, 10 sick days, 11 holidays Growth: Tuition reimbursement and ongoing professional development Wellness: Employee Assistance Program Family Support: 529 College Savings Program Work-Life Balance Monday-Friday schedule: 8:15 AM - 4:30 PM Shortened summer academic schedule Time off in July and August What You'll Do As a Special Education Teacher, you'll play a central role in both the academic and emotional growth of your students: Design and deliver IEP-aligned, differentiated lesson plans Use creative, engaging instructional strategies tailored to individual needs Implement therapeutic and trauma-informed practices to support emotional regulation Collaborate closely with clinicians, behavior specialists, and classroom staff Foster a structured, supportive classroom environment Partner with families and multidisciplinary teams Write and manage IEPs and student progress reports Contribute to a holistic, therapeutic school culture Who Thrives Here You'll succeed at O-School if you: Believe in relationship-based, student-centered teaching Are patient, flexible, and emotionally resilient Value team collaboration and shared responsibility Are passionate about supporting students with complex learning and behavioral needs Use or are eager to learn strengths-based and trauma-informed practices Qualifications Required Illinois Professional Educator License with LBS1 endorsement Bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field Preferred Master's degree Experience with students with emotional disabilities, autism, or behavioral needs Experience in therapeutic, alternative, or specialized school settings Why O-School? At O-School, we believe every student deserves dignity, connection, and the opportunity to succeed. Our educators combine strong academics with clinical insight to help students grow in meaningful, lasting ways. You’ll join a community that prioritizes support, innovation, and professional growth-so you can do your best work and make a real impact. Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School