Special Education Teacher (PreK-3 SPED LBS)

Chicago Public Schools - Chicago, IL

Full-time - Entry Level

Chicago, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The Special Education Teacher (PreK-3 SPED LBS) position at Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is designed for educators who are passionate about providing high-quality education to diverse learners. Under the supervision of the school principal, the teacher will be responsible for the instruction, progress tracking, and discipline of all students in assigned classes. This role requires a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that supports the educational and social needs of students with special needs, ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to succeed academically and socially. The teacher will set achievable goals for each student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP) in accordance with the State of Illinois guidelines, working collaboratively with case managers, counselors, and general education teachers. This collaboration is essential to determine the instructional and social needs of students, promoting their overall well-being. The teacher will utilize the CPS Framework for Teaching to continuously improve their teaching practices, demonstrating a deep understanding of content and pedagogy to design coherent instruction and assessments that meet the diverse needs of students. Creating a respectful classroom culture is paramount, as the teacher will establish strong management of student behaviors and classroom procedures that appreciate the cultural, racial, and linguistic diversity of the student body. The teacher will respond to the needs of all students by designing engaging classroom instruction, utilizing appropriate communication techniques, and implementing instructionally aligned assessments. Excellent oral and written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, and sound professional judgment are essential for effective interactions with administration, colleagues, families, and students. Prioritizing student safety is crucial, and the teacher will consistently implement the Student Code of Conduct and school-wide systems of management and discipline. 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 all students, including those with special needs, are given the attention they deserve.

Responsibilities

• Instruct and track the progress of all students in assigned classes.
• Set achievable goals for each student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
• Collaborate with case managers, counselors, and general education teachers to determine students' instructional and social needs.
• Create an effective learning environment by establishing a respectful classroom culture.
• Design engaging classroom instruction with appropriately challenging questions and aligned assessments.
• Exhibit excellent oral and written communication skills in interactions with administration, colleagues, families, and students.
• Implement the Student Code of Conduct and school-wide management systems to prioritize student safety.
• Personalize student learning through innovative use of curriculum supplements and technology resources.
• Advocate for the district's vision and commit to 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 at cps.edu/teach.