Special Education Teacher - North Lawndale College Prep Charter High School

Celebrating 25 years as an anchor institution in the North Lawndale Community, North Lawndale College Prep (NLCP) is doubling down on its mission to not only empower students with the tools needed to successfully make it to and through college but to also become transformational leaders.

Operating two unique campus locations, NLCP is a co-ed charter network serving approximately 750 students in grades 9-12. Our scholars - the majority of whom are low income - choose NLCP for its culturally responsive and rigorous academic model. Students know when they enroll at NLCP they are entering into a robust web of support and an uplifting community.

At the heart of NLCP's strong community is our commitment to four core employee values that guide the work we do and prepare us to serve students in transformational ways: trustworthiness, timeliness, teamwork, and transparency. We believe that centering these values and continually growing and improving how they are practiced helps staff members build a safe and supportive environment for both students and fellow staff.

POSITION SUMMARY

NLCP teachers are responsible for leading core course instructional minutes and ensuring alignment with curricula best practices. As part of NLCP's college readiness academic model teachers will have the opportunity to teach across the spectrum of their expertise and be supported in creating differentiated learning experiences in their classrooms. In addition to core instructional minutes teachers will engage in special topic seminar instruction, allowing creativity in instruction and adding to the breadth of content exposure that scholars receive. Teachers will participate in continuous professional learning as well as hold stakeholdership in departmental planning, which involves steering the direction of subject curriculum management.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for students with disabilities in compliance with state and federal laws and regulations
• Modify and adapt general education curriculum and materials to meet the needs of students with special needs
• Provide ongoing coaching support for differentiated instruction to staff interfacing with diverse learners in general education classroom settings as well as accommodations and modifications
• Deliver instruction in a variety of differentiated formats and modalities to accommodate diverse learning needs and styles
• Communicate regularly with families and other stakeholders to provide updates on student progress, discuss concerns, and seek input on student needs
• Frequently collaborate with members of the school based behavioral health team to provide a comprehensive support system for diverse learners and ensure fidelity to IEP plans.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in education, youth development, or relevant field required, masters preferred
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator's License (or out-of-state equivalent preferred)

• Passion to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of the classroom
• Proven track-record of high achievement in the classroom
• Mastery of and enthusiasm for academic subject

• Maintains a strengths-based approach, practicing boundless compassion for scholars and staff
• Relentless in pursuit of student growth
• Dedication to betterment of one's own skill and craft
• Grounded in community and the importance of healthy, safe, and transformative relationships
• Passion about Urban Education and equitable educational outcomes
• Knowledge of Chicago Public Schools enrollment and transfer policies
• Demonstrated involvement with restorative practices including experience facilitating talking and peace circles
• Ability to work independently, multi-task, and problem solve
• Ability to maintain a warm customer focused demeanor
• Experience working with youth and/or in a school setting
• Strong facilitation and conflict resolution skills
• Knowledge of restorative justice principles and practices
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills