Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher

Location: New Horizon Center Schedule: Full-Time | Monday-Friday | 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Join the New Horizon Center Team At New Horizon Center, our mission is to empower children and young adults with disabilities to reach their fullest potential. Every milestone matters whether it's a student speaking their first word, gaining confidence, or taking steps toward greater independence. As a Non-Public Therapeutic Day School serving students ages 3-22, we are committed to creating a supportive, engaging, and inclusive environment where students thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally.

We are seeking a compassionate, motivated, and collaborative Special Education Teacher to join our team and make a meaningful impact in the lives of our students and families.

Position Overview

The Special Education Teacher is responsible for creating and implementing individualized, student-centered instruction for learners with diverse educational, behavioral, developmental, and physical needs. This role includes developing and implementing IEP goals, managing classroom staff, fostering positive behaviors, and collaborating closely with families and multidisciplinary teams to support student success.

The ideal candidate is passionate about special education, skilled in classroom management, and committed to helping every student grow toward greater independence and achievement.

Qualifications

Required: Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) LBS1 Endorsement (Pre-K through Age 21)

Preferred: Experience working in a therapeutic day school or special education setting Experience supporting students with developmental, intellectual, behavioral, and physical disabilities Strong knowledge of differentiated instruction, behavior intervention strategies, and IEP development

Key Responsibilities

Instruction & Student Support

• Provide individualized and small-group instruction aligned with each student's IEP goals and learning needs
• Develop, adapt, and implement curriculum materials in core academic areas, including literacy and functional learning skills
• Foster student independence, communication, self-advocacy, and social-emotional growth
• Utilize evidence-based instructional strategies and multi-sensory learning approaches to maximize student engagement and success
• Create a structured, safe, and supportive classroom environment that promotes positive learning experiences

Classroom & Behavior Management

• Implement positive behavior supports and effective classroom management strategies
• Supervise and support classroom paraprofessionals and related service staff
• Monitor student behavior and progress, maintaining accurate and timely documentation
• Maintain organized classroom routines and ensure learning environments are clean, safe, and conducive to learning

Collaboration & Communication

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams
• Communicate regularly with parents, guardians, therapists, and staff regarding student progress and needs
• Participate actively in IEP meetings, staff meetings, and professional development opportunities
• Collaborate with related service providers to support students' academic, behavioral, social, and physical development

Skills & Qualifications

Strong understanding of special education practices and differentiated instruction Excellent verbal and written communication skills Effective classroom and behavior management abilities Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues Knowledge of literacy instruction and curriculum adaptation for diverse learners Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment Commitment to fostering an inclusive, student-centered learning environment

Physical Requirements

New Horizon Center team members actively engage with students throughout the school day and are expected to: Lift and assist with up to 45 lbs. Bend, squat, kneel, and move throughout classroom spaces Work at students' eye level to build trust and positive engagement Participate actively in classroom and school activities Maintain organized and safe learning environments Support team members and contribute positively throughout the building

Working Environment

Non-Public Special Education Therapeutic Day School Self-contained classroom setting Collaborative, team-oriented atmosphere focused on student growth and success

Why Join New Horizon Center? At New Horizon Center, you'll join a compassionate team dedicated to helping students achieve meaningful progress every day. We value collaboration, creativity, patience, and the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. If you are passionate about special education and committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of students and families, we encourage you to apply.