Special Education Teacher, Grades 2-4

Chicago Public Schools - Chicago, IL

Full-time - Entry Level

Chicago, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The Special Education Teacher for grades 2-4 at Chicago Public Schools (CPS) plays a crucial role in providing high-quality education to diverse learners. Under the supervision of the school principal, the teacher is responsible for the instruction, progress tracking, and discipline of all students in assigned classes. This position requires a valid teaching license issued by the Illinois State Board of Education, specifically endorsed in LBS1. The teacher will set achievable goals for each student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP) in accordance with state guidelines, ensuring that these goals are comparable to those of their peers. Collaboration is key in this role, as the teacher will work closely with case managers, counselors, and general education teachers to assess and address the instructional and social needs of students. Participation in a multidisciplinary team is essential to promote the well-being of students. The teacher is expected to demonstrate a deep understanding of content and pedagogy, allowing them to select appropriate learning objectives and design coherent instruction and assessments. Creating an effective learning environment is paramount. The teacher will establish a respectful classroom culture that promotes and appreciates the cultural, racial, and linguistic diversity of students. They will respond to the needs of all students by designing engaging classroom instruction that includes appropriately challenging questions and aligned assessments. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, are necessary for effective interaction with administration, colleagues, families, and students. Safety is a priority, and the teacher must consistently implement the Student Code of Conduct and school-wide management systems. Personalizing student learning through innovative use of curriculum supplements and technology resources is also a key responsibility. The teacher will advocate for the district's vision, committing to themes of equity, cultural competence, high expectations, and developmental appropriateness, while ensuring that individual student needs, including those with special needs, are met.

Responsibilities

• Instruct and track the progress of all students in assigned classes.
• Set achievable goals for individualized education plans (IEPs) in accordance with state guidelines.
• Collaborate with case managers, counselors, and general education teachers to assess student needs.
• Create a respectful classroom culture that promotes diversity.
• Design engaging classroom instruction with appropriately challenging questions.
• Exhibit excellent communication skills in interactions with administration, colleagues, families, and students.
• Implement the Student Code of Conduct and school-wide management systems consistently.
• Personalize student learning through innovative curriculum and technology resources.
• Advocate for the district's vision and themes of equity and cultural competence.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.
• A valid teaching license issued by the Illinois State Board of Education, endorsed in LBS1.
• Completion of the CPS online application and teaching profile.