Special Education Teacher SY2026-SY2027

Position Summary

Special Education Teachers at North Lawndale College Prep (NLCP) play a critical role in ensuring all students, regardless of learning needs, receive the instruction, accommodations, and supports necessary to achieve academic success. They deliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction while tailoring learning experiences to meet the unique needs of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans. Special Education Teachers collaborate closely with general education teachers, service providers, and families to create inclusive and effective learning environments.

Position Responsibilities

• Plan and Deliver Individualized Instruction
• Develop and implement engaging, standards-aligned instruction tailored to meet the needs of students with disabilities.
• Utilize a variety of instructional strategies, including differentiated instruction, multi-modal teaching approaches, and assistive technology.
• Provide specialized instruction in inclusion settings, resource rooms, or self-contained classrooms as appropriate.
• Adapt curriculum materials and classroom strategies to ensure access to learning for all students.
• Support Student Growth Through MTSS and Special Education Services
• Actively participate in the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) by using data to identify students in need of additional support.
• Implement targeted interventions and collaborate with colleagues to adjust instruction based on student progress.
• Collect and analyze student progress data to inform instructional decisions and IEP goal development.
• Support general education teachers in implementing accommodations and modifications for students with disabilities.
• Ensure Compliance with Special Education Laws and Policies
• Develop, write, and implement effective IEPs that align with state and federal requirements and best practices in special education.
• Facilitate and/or participate in annual IEP meetings, re-evaluations, and parent conferences in collaboration with team members and families as scheduled by the case manager.
• Regularly document student progress through data collection and maintain accurate records in compliance with IDEA and state regulations.
• Ensure all special education documentation, including progress monitoring and quarterly reports, is completed accurately and on time.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of students with disabilities within the school community.
• Regular Collaboration with Related Service Providers
• Work closely with related service providers, including speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and social workers, to ensure students receive the necessary supports and accommodations.
• Implement strategies and interventions recommended by related service providers in the classroom setting.
• Attend and actively participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to develop and monitor student progress and service delivery.

Reports To:

• Principal or designee

Position Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Special Education, Education, or a relevant field required; Master's preferred.
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator's License with a LBS1 endorsement required (or out-of-state equivalent with eligibility for license reciprocity).
• Strong content knowledge and enthusiasm for teaching students with disabilities and diverse learning needs.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Commitment to improving the academic and personal growth of students with disabilities.
• Proven track record of driving student achievement and closing opportunity gaps for students receiving special education services.
• Strong instructional skills, differentiation techniques, and data-driven decision-making.
• Maintains a strengths-based approach, demonstrating unwavering belief in students' potential and practicing boundless compassion.
• Dedicated to continuous improvement and refining instructional practices to meet diverse student needs.
• Passionate about urban education and committed to advancing equitable educational opportunities for historically marginalized students.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Good level of proficiency in Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, and Drive) and general computer applications

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, and interact with students and staff.
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds.
• Frequent computer work required.
• The noise level in the work environment can be moderate to loud, especially in collaborative classroom settings.
• The role may require supporting students in various settings, including general education classrooms, small-group instruction, and sensory-friendly environments.

Conditions of Employment

• Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
• Compliance with all board policies, ISBE requirements, and relevant educational laws and regulations.