Substitute Teacher, Long-Term

Atlantis Academy•Harvard, IL

1d•$25 - $30

About The Position

ChanceLight Behavioral Health, Therapy, & Education is seeking a Long-Term Substitute Teacher for its special education program serving Grades 6–12. In the absence of the regular classroom teacher, the substitute ensures instructional continuity by implementing curriculum, schedules, lesson plans, and related materials tailored to individual student needs, while considering state requirements and students’ physical, emotional, and academic development. The role is accountable for supporting measurable student achievement through instructional practices aligned with ChanceLight standards and policies. The position is suited to someone who can adapt to dynamic learning environments and support students who benefit from structure. The teacher works with teachers and support staff, students’ families, and guardians, and participates in team meetings and student progress monitoring. The role also includes maintaining a safe, structured classroom and supporting ongoing student success. The listed starting rate is $25–$30 per hour, based on experience.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher in education or a closely related field.
Currently licensed or in the process of obtaining a valid Illinois state substitute teaching credential.
Ability to obtain and maintain certification in company-approved crisis management training.
Prior experience providing instruction, guidance, and/or support to children; experience in an alternative, special education, and/or behavioral health program setting is preferred.
Prior experience and/or knowledge in special education services, curriculum development, differentiated instruction, and personalized learning in a classroom setting.
High skill in working with children with learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorders, and/or related disabilities.
Proficiency in motivating students and having critical conversations that help them move toward realistic goals.
Ability to think and act quickly and calmly in an emergency and make independent decisions.
Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain organization and attention to detail.
Advanced oral and written communication, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem-solving, and decision-making ability.
Knowledge of relevant technology, including instructional technology, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry, and basic office equipment.

Responsibilities

Design daily lesson plans and structured classroom schedules aligned with state standards and school expectations.
Deliver rigorous, engaging instruction and facilitate classroom activities using curriculum resources and educational technology.
Collaborate with teachers and support staff to provide targeted instructional support and approved curriculum modifications for diverse learner needs.
Establish and enforce behavioral expectations, maintain a safe and productive learning environment, and provide consistent line-of-sight supervision of assigned students.
Maintain a firm, fair, and consistent instructional approach grounded in structure, accountability, and high expectations.
Communicate regularly with parents and guardians about student progress, areas for improvement, and external factors that may affect academic performance.
Participate in team meetings about student academic or behavioral concerns and intervention strategies.
Monitor and evaluate student progress by reviewing classroom data, documentation systems, and performance metrics.
Stay current with research-based practices, subject-area advancements, and professional development opportunities.
Model professionalism and positivity, and respond constructively to formal and informal feedback.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support classroom operations and student success.