Special Education Teacher - Grades K-8

Special Education Teacher, Grades K-8 - Available Immediately

Are you looking for a school that reignites your passion for teaching? A place where students are valued as individuals, not just test scores, and teachers are respected as both professionals and people? Consider Polaris Charter Academy, a school founded on the belief that character development and real-world, authentic learning experiences help children become ethical, lifelong learners who contribute to a better world.

Position Overview

Polaris Charter Academy is seeking a passionate, skilled, and student-centered Special Education Teacher to join our inclusive learning community. The ideal candidate will provide high-quality instruction and support to students with diverse learning needs while collaborating closely with general education teachers, families, and support staff to ensure that all students achieve at high levels—academically, socially, and emotionally.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that support students’ unique learning needs and goals
• Provide push-in and pull-out instruction, accommodations, and modifications to ensure access to rigorous grade-level content
• Collaborate with classroom teachers to differentiate instruction and co-plan engaging lessons that promote success for all learners
• Use formative and summative data to monitor student progress and adjust instruction accordingly
• Communicate regularly with families, paraprofessionals, and service providers to build strong, supportive partnerships
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation, reports, and compliance with all IDEA and state requirements
• Participate in team meetings, professional learning communities to continually improve practice
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful learning environment that promotes belonging, independence, and growth
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and craftsmanship in all aspects of planning, communication, and teamwork

Qualifications and Attributes

• A growth mindset and unwavering belief that all students can achieve at high levels
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with LBS1 (Learning Behavior Specialist I) endorsement required
• Experience working with students with diverse learning needs in inclusive and self-contained settings
• Strong knowledge of research-based instructional practices, including co-teaching and differentiation
• Proven ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues
• Demonstrated skill in collaborating with general education teachers to support inclusion and equity
• Commitment to continuous improvement through reflection, feedback, and professional learning
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or related field
• Valid Illinois teaching certification with Special Education endorsement (LBS1)
• Knowledge of IDEA, ADA, and Section 504 regulations
• Strong understanding of differentiated instruction and inclusive practices

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Special Education or related field
• Experience working in an elementary school setting
• Bilingual or ESL certification is a plus

Skills & Competencies:

• Empathy, patience, and a student-centered approach
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
• Proficiency in educational technology and data tracking tools
• Commitment to professional growth and development

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on education and experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan options
• Paid time off and holidays
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development

Equal Opportunity Employer

Polaris Charter Academy is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive community. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status. We strongly encourage individuals from historically underrepresented groups to apply.

Interested candidates should submit the following to Francesca Peck, School Principal:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• References (3 professional)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person