Special Education Teacher (Self-Contained Instructional)

Our Mission & Strategic Vision

Our mission is to prepare today's learners for tomorrow's world. We seek to intentionally design an environment where every student is held to high expectations and empowered to reach their full potential as productive, well-rounded humans. Driven by our strategic framework, we are committed to five key pillars of excellence:

• Academic Success: Building strong foundations for lifelong learning.
• Supportive & Safe Schools: Nurturing student well-being and security.
• A Thriving Workforce: Sustaining a dedicated and inspired team.
• Operational Excellence: Meeting evolving district needs with efficiency.
• Community Engagement: Fostering reciprocal, authentic relationships.

Our Portrait of a Graduate serves as our "north star," expanding the definition of success to include both core academic knowledge and the essential competencies our community identifies as vital for our students to leave ready for their next step within their academic journey, future work, and life. By clearly articulating these student-focused outcomes. The entire School District 123 Strategic Framework and Portrait of a Graduate can be found at: plan.d123.org.

Job Requirements

The Special Education Teacher serves students at [Building Name] by providing specially designed instruction, case management, and collaborative support to students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The position works closely with general education teachers, related service providers, paraprofessionals, building administrators, students, and parents/guardians to ensure each student receives appropriate services in the least restrictive environment. The role requires sound instructional judgment, strong organizational and communication skills, and consistent attention to compliance with state and federal special education requirements.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, ability, physical demands and working conditions required of this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the role.

Job Qualifications

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License with LBS1 endorsement

Direct Supervisor

Building Principal and Supervisor of Special Education, may receive assignments from administrative personnel as required or assist with special projects as assigned by District administration.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Demonstrate support of the Oak Lawn-Hometown School District #123 Strategic Framework.
• Uphold the established Board of Education policies, regulations, and administrative procedures.
• Assess and address students' strengths and learning needs.
• Provide case management, including developing IEPs, monitoring student progress, communicating with parents/guardians and team members, assisting in the preparation of student schedules, implementing behavior intervention plans, and coordinating scheduled meeting times when necessary.
• Plan and implement appropriate instruction using methods and materials most suitable for meeting student goals and objectives.
• Apply student learning theory, brain-based learning, and differentiated instruction.
• Evaluate students on a regular basis and provide reports as required.
• Create a classroom and school environment that is conducive to learning and is age appropriate.
• Utilize technology to promote learning, creativity, and collaboration.
• Maintain and improve professional competence.
• Sit and/or stand for prolonged periods of time as required to perform the duties of the position.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records, staff information, and program documentation.
• Communicate and cooperate with colleagues, students, parents/guardians, and the community as needed to meet professional standards.
• Participate in meetings and perform other responsibilities as assigned by the Building Principal or designee in accordance with the contract and Board of Education.
• Utilize time management techniques to organize and prioritize work.
• Regular attendance and/or physical presence at the job.

Terms of Employment

Status: Certified (Represented) 

Hours/Day: See Collective Bargaining Agreement (Art. II, Section 10.A) 

Months/Year: See Collective Bargaining Agreement (Art. II, Section 10.B) 

Salary: See Collective Bargaining Agreement (d123.org/cba)

Evaluation

Performance in this position will be evaluated by the Building Principal or designee in accordance with the Board of Education's policy on Evaluation of Professional Personnel.

The School Board of Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123 prohibits any and all forms of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, age, homelessness, or disability or other basis prohibited by law in any of its programs, services, activities or employment.