Special Education Teacher-Intensive Communications Program

Job Summary:

Cook County School District 130 is seeking a compassionate and student-centered special education teacher to join our K-3 Intensive Communications Program (ICP). This role provides for individualized instruction and support for students with disabilities, with an emphasis on academic, functional, social-emotional, and communication development. The special education teacher modifies lessons using an alternative curriculum and implements them through small group and one-on-one instruction. The special education teacher also collaborates with other classroom teachers and related service providers in the development and implementation of best practices, thus ensuring that the students' needs are met in all school settings.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Plan and deliver differentiated, engaging instruction through small-group and one-on-one learning experiences.
• Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs aligned to each student's academic, communication, functional, and social-emotional needs.
• Use formative and summative assessment data to monitor progress, address IEP goals, and adjust instruction.
• Create a structured, supportive classroom environment with clear routines, positive behavior supports, and effective transitions.
• Use instructional technology, resources, and alternative curriculum materials to increase student engagement and learning.
• Build positive relationships with students and maintain regular, meaningful communication with families.
• Collaborate with colleagues and related service providers to support student success across school settings.
• Reflect on instructional practices and use student data to continuously improve teaching and learning.

Qualifications:

• Current and valid Illinois Professional Educator License with a special education(LBS I) endorsement.
• Experience using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices with students who are non-verbal or have limited functional speech.
• Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles to support communication-based behaviors.
• Ability to collect, analyze, and apply student data to make instructional decisions.
• Ability to support and guide classroom paraprofessionals, including training on student-specific protocols.
• Awareness of sensory needs and the ability to recognize when students may be overstimulated by lights, sounds, or textures.
• Flexibility, creativity, collaboration, and a strong child-centered approach.
• Ability to collaborate with the Special Education Coordinator to facilitate effective IEP meetings.

Salary and Benefits:

• Starting salary of $54,344 (Please click the link to view the current (salary schedule).
• Salary is commensurate with education and experience.
• Qualified candidates may receive credit for up to 20 years of verified full-time teaching experience on the salary schedule.
• Mentoring program for teachers who are new to the District.
• A professional environment focused on student growth, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• The District offers a competitive benefits package, which includes health (Blue Cross Blue Shield), dental (Guardian), vision (VSP) and life insurance plans (2026-2027 CCSD130 Benefit Summary Guide).
• Employee Assistance Program for employees and their immediate family members.
• Employee Wellness Program with reimbursement of up to $100 for eligible wellness-related goods and activities.

Working Conditions:

• 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• 180 days per year
• August through May

Cook County School District 130 is an Equal Opportunity Employer.