Duties
Are you ready to make a lasting impact in a mission-driven school setting? Helping Hand is looking for a passionate Special Education Teacher to join our award-winning Therapeutic Day School.
You'll lead instruction, develop IEPs, mentor support staff, and create a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment for students ages 3-22 with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
- Develop, implement, and regularly review Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) based on each student’s strengths, needs, and progress.
- Plan and deliver individualized instruction using adaptable teaching methods, educational technology, and evidence-based practices.
- Modify instructional content and delivery to support diverse learning needs and provide multiple ways for students to engage and demonstrate understanding.
- Conduct formal and informal assessments, monitor student progress, and adjust instruction as needed.
- Create a safe, structured, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment.
- Implement behavior-support plans, crisis-prevention strategies, and emergency procedures in accordance with Helping Hand standards.
- Provide supervision, leadership, and training to Instructional Teaching Assistants.
- Collaborate with teachers, paraprofessionals, families, and multidisciplinary team members to address student needs and support positive outcomes.
- Maintain accurate and timely IEPs, progress reports, attendance records, assessments, and other required documentation.
- Participate in IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, agency meetings, and required training.
- Remain current on special education laws, regulations, best practices, and emerging instructional strategies.
- Communicate professionally and build positive relationships with students, families, colleagues, and volunteers.
- Promote Helping Hand’s values and contribute to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Salary/Benefits
SCHEDULE AND COMPENSATION:
- On-site position, weekdays, 40 hours per week
- Salary range: $68,000-$75,000/year (Salary/Exempt).
- Salary based on skills and experience.
- Up to 8% annual bonus potential
- 403b retirement plan with up to a 4% company match.
HELPING HAND PERKS:
- Purpose-driven work that changes lives.
- Tuition reimbursement and clear career growth opportunities.
- Traditional medical (BCBS of IL), dental, and vision insurance.
- Employer-paid Group Life/AD&D, Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability.
- Team member appreciation events and year-round recognition.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness support.
- Generous PTO including paid holidays, personal time, paid school breaks, and accrued sick time.
- PSLF-qualifying employer under the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Additional Notes
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- Year-round school schedule with numerous paid breaks throughout the year.
- The person in this position needs to occasionally move about to assist students, access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
- The ability to observe details at a close range (within a few feet of the observer).
- Consistently position self to maintain files in file cabinets or assist students.
- The ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in all situations.
- Occasional movement of students by wheelchair or other mechanical devices.
- The person in this position may encounter students exhibiting physical aggression; must be comfortable working in periods of crisis and feel comfortable de-escalating individually or as a team.
Helping Hand is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We believe that embracing our differences strengthens our community and enhances the quality of care we provide.
How to Apply
Please apply by completing an application at: Special Education Teacher Application