Special Education Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About New Leader Academy

New Leader Academy is a private, ISBE-approved therapeutic day school serving students with Autism, Emotional Disabilities, Other Health Impairments (OHI), Developmental Disabilities, and other complex learning needs. We provide individualized, trauma-informed, and evidence-based instruction in a supportive, structured environment where every student's IEP goals drive daily practice.

Position Summary

We are seeking a dedicated Special Education Teacher to join our instructional team. This teacher will deliver individualized, differentiated instruction, progress monitor IEP goals, and collaborate closely with case managers, related service providers, paraeducators, and families to support students' academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and progress monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and IEP goals in collaboration with the student's case manager
• Implement and consistently apply Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) as developed by the multidisciplinary team, providing input based on classroom observation and data collection
• Support students who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems, integrating AAC use throughout daily instruction and routines
• Differentiate and deliver instruction to meet the sensory, behavioral, and academic needs of students with autism, emotional disabilities, OHI, DD, and other disabilities
• Collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary team, including but not limited to speech-language pathologists, OTs, behavior analysts, social workers, case managers, and paraeducators
• Supervise and direct paraeducators/classroom aides to ensure consistent implementation of student support plans
• Maintain accurate documentation, including data collection for IEP goals and behavior plans
• Communicate regularly and professionally with parents/guardians regarding student progress
• Create and maintain a structured, sensory-supportive, and emotionally safe classroom environment
• Participate in IEP meetings, staffings, and professional development as required
• Respond to escalating behaviors using de-escalation strategies and crisis intervention protocols as trained

Qualifications

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with Learning Behavior Specialist (LBS1) endorsement or LBS1 certificate required
• Experience working with students with autism, emotional disabilities, and/or significant developmental disabilities
• Working knowledge of AAC systems and communication supports
• Familiarity with Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) preferred
• Working knowledge of IDEA and ISBE special education regulations
• Crisis prevention/intervention certification (e.g., CPI, Handle With Care) preferred or willingness to obtain
• Excellent collaboration, communication, and organizational skills

What We Offer

• Small class sizes and low student-to-staff ratios
• A collaborative, team-based instructional model
• Ongoing professional development and coaching support
• A mission-driven environment focused on individualized student growth

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunities for professional development, continuing education, and earning CEUs and professional development points
• A supportive and collaborative working environment designed to foster professional and personal growth