Special Education Teacher

Thresholds • Chicago, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Thresholds High School is an Illinois State Board of Education certified all-year-round therapeutic day school serving students ages 16 to 21 with ongoing serious mental health needs. The school offers a unique blend of flexibility and support to help students achieve their high school diplomas and transition goals. Students also receive therapeutic support through the Young Adult Program to address issues like anxiety, frustration, and school refusal that have impacted their academic success. As the lead teacher, you will manage a classroom of up to 8 students, developing a curriculum aligned with district and state requirements. Lesson plans will cater to multiple academic levels and student IEPs. You will instruct the class daily with the assistance of a teacher's aide, monitor and grade student performance, and support students in their academic progress and post-graduation planning. Responsibilities include conducting standardized tests, and maintaining records of academic performance, attendance, and social acclimation in compliance with district policies and state laws. The school fosters a collaborative and supportive culture, providing necessary tools and resources for effective student care. Thresholds High School collaborates with suburban and Chicago home districts and the Young Adult Program treatment team. Opportunities for professional development in areas such as harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based practices are available.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or Special Education is required.
• Current Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS1) license required.
• Passion for mental health advocacy
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills
• Patience and willingness to meet youth where they’re at
• Good writing skills and attention to detail
• Previous experience working with high school aged children dealing with mental illness
• Ability to perform Therapeutic Crisis Intervention therapeutic restraint techniques, which require moderate exertion, being able to lift 40 pounds, and the mobility to lower self to a kneeling position on the floor.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree preferred.
• Previous IEP writing experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Educate a class of up to 8 students.
• Develop a course of study according to curriculum guidelines of the school district and state requirements.
• Tailor lesson plans for three or more levels of academic ability and previous achievement, and in alignment with the students’ IEPs.
• Supervise the students in the classroom and instruct the class each day with the assistance of a teacher’s aide.
• Monitor and grade student performance, supporting the youth in their academic achievement, graduating, and preparing for their next steps.
• Conduct standardized tests in accordance with district policies and state laws.
• Keep records of academic performance, attendance, and social acclimation.

Benefits

• No after school or weekend responsibilities
• Competitive pay - Base Salary: $64,000 - 75,000 annually
• Commensurate with education and experience
• Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation)
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 4 medical insurance plans
• 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match
• Cell phone reimbursement (up to $50/month)
• Robust employee assistance program (EAP)
• Public service loan forgiveness

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level