Special Education Teacher (LBS1) - Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School (O-School) Chicago, IL | Full-Time | $65,000-$85,000 + Bonus Make a Meaningful Difference Every Day Join the Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School (O-School) and teach in a therapeutic, relationship-centered environment serving students with emotional disabilities, autism, and complex behavioral and mental health needs. If you're passionate about inclusive education, collaboration, and whole-child development, this is an opportunity to do deeply impactful work alongside a highly supportive team. Why Join O-School? A Therapeutic, Team-Based Environment At O-School, you're never teaching alone. Our model is intentionally designed for support, collaboration, and student success. • 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio supporting highly tailored, student-centered instruction • Strong classroom teams including: • Co-Teachers • Teacher Assistants • 1:1 Instructional Aides • Crisis Intervention Specialists • Interdisciplinary collaboration with clinicians, therapists, and behavioral specialists • A structured, trauma-informed, and relationship-based approach For over 100 years, O-School has provided innovative educational and therapeutic services to students ages 8-22 in a safe, nurturing environment. Compensation & Benefits Salary: $65,000-$85,000/year based on experience and credentials Bonus: Eligibility for performance and/or retention bonuses Benefits: • Health: Medical, dental, and vision insurance (effective Day 1) • Financial: 403(b) with Roth option; HSA/FSA; company-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance • Time Off: • Up to 7 weeks of paid school breaks annually • 6 personal days, 10 sick days, 11 holidays • Growth: Tuition reimbursement and ongoing professional development • Wellness: Employee Assistance Program • Family Support: 529 College Savings Program Work-Life Balance • Monday-Friday schedule: 8:15 AM - 4:30 PM • Shortened summer academic schedule • Time off in July and August What You'll Do As a Special Education Teacher, you'll play a central role in both the academic and emotional growth of your students: • Design and deliver IEP-aligned, differentiated lesson plans • Use creative, engaging instructional strategies tailored to individual needs • Implement therapeutic and trauma-informed practices to support emotional regulation • Collaborate closely with clinicians, behavior specialists, and classroom staff • Foster a structured, supportive classroom environment • Partner with families and multidisciplinary teams • Write and manage IEPs and student progress reports • Contribute to a holistic, therapeutic school culture Who Thrives Here You'll succeed at O-School if you: • Believe in relationship-based, student-centered teaching • Are patient, flexible, and emotionally resilient • Value team collaboration and shared responsibility • Are passionate about supporting students with complex learning and behavioral needs • Use or are eager to learn strengths-based and trauma-informed practices Qualifications Required • Illinois Professional Educator License with LBS1 endorsement • Bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field Preferred • Master's degree • Experience with students with emotional disabilities, autism, or behavioral needs • Experience in therapeutic, alternative, or specialized school settings Why O-School? At O-School, we believe every student deserves dignity, connection, and the opportunity to succeed. Our educators combine strong academics with clinical insight to help students grow in meaningful, lasting ways. You'll join a community that prioritizes support, innovation, and professional growth-so you can do your best work and make a real impact. Ready to Apply? If you're a dedicated educator eager to make a difference in a highly supportive environment, we encourage you to apply today. Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.