Benefits:
401(k) matching
Competitive salary
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Parental leave
Training & development
Vision insurance
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