Job Title: Cross-Categorical Special Education Teacher

Location: Berkeley, IL

Position Overview: The school is seeking a qualified and passionate Cross-Categorical Special Education Teacher to join our team. The ideal candidate will provide specialized instruction to students with varying disabilities in a supportive and inclusive environment. This role involves developing and implementing individualized education programs (IEPs), collaborating with general education teachers and support staff, and fostering a positive learning environment that promotes student growth and success.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Instructional Support:

   • Provide differentiated instruction to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities, including those with learning disabilities, emotional and behavioral disorders, autism, and other health impairments.
   • Utilize a variety of instructional strategies, including direct instruction, co-teaching, and small group interventions, to support student learning.
   • Adapt and modify curriculum materials to ensure accessibility for all students.

2. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs):

   • Develop, implement, and monitor IEPs for students with disabilities, ensuring that goals and objectives are tailored to each student’s needs.
   • Conduct assessments to determine eligibility for special education services and to inform instructional planning.
   • Regularly review and update IEPs in collaboration with parents, general education teachers, and other relevant staff.

3. Collaboration:

   • Work closely with general education teachers to support the inclusion of students with disabilities in the general education classroom.
   • Collaborate with related service providers, such as speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and school psychologists, to deliver comprehensive support to students.
   • Communicate regularly with parents and caregivers to provide updates on student progress and to involve them in the educational process.

4. Behavior Management:

   • Implement positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS) to promote a safe and supportive classroom environment.
   • Develop and implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) for students with behavioral challenges, in collaboration with the school’s multidisciplinary team.
   • Monitor and document student behavior, providing feedback and support to help students develop appropriate social and emotional skills.

5. Professional Development:

   • Participate in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in special education.
   • Engage in reflective practice to continuously improve instructional strategies and classroom management techniques.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Special Education or a related field.
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with a Learning Behavior Specialist (LBS1) endorsement.
• Experience working with students with a range of disabilities, preferably in a K-12 setting.
• Strong understanding of special education laws, including IDEA and Section 504.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time position, following the academic calendar.

Salary and Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, and professional development opportunities.