Onward Search Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top jobs with the nation's top schools. We’re partnering with a school district in Cook County, Illinois to hire a dedicated Special Education Teacher for the 2025–2026 school year. This role is in a K–2 low incidence self-contained classroom setting, supporting students with significant and complex learning needs in a highly structured environment.

The Special Education Teacher will lead a self-contained classroom serving primary students (K–2) who require intensive, individualized instruction and support. This educator will design and implement IEP-driven programming, provide direct instruction in academic and functional skill areas, and collaborate with related service providers and families to promote student growth, independence, and engagement.

Position Details

• Position: Special Education Teacher – Low Incidence, Self-Contained (K–2)

• Location: In-person, Cook County, IL

• Hours: Full-time (standard school-day hours)

• Schedule: Monday–Friday

• School Year: 2025–2026
• Stat Date: ASAP

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) aligned to student needs.

• Provide direct, individualized and small-group instruction in academic, functional, and behavioral skill areas.

• Create and maintain a structured, supportive classroom environment that promotes safety, engagement, and growth.

• Implement accommodations, modifications, and assistive supports as outlined in student plans.

• Collaborate with related service providers (e.g., SLP, OT/PT, social work) and support staff to deliver coordinated services.

• Collect data and progress monitor student outcomes to adjust instruction and interventions as needed.

Qualifications

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with LBS1 endorsement (required).

• Experience in a self-contained and/or low incidence classroom setting preferred.

• Strong understanding of IEP development, progress monitoring, and differentiated instruction.

• Knowledge of behavior support strategies and structured teaching practices.

• Excellent communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay and benefits package.

• Access to a wide network of schools and districts for diverse placement options.

• Streamlined hiring process to get you started quickly.

• Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your placement.

• Personalized support from dedicated recruiting professionals.

• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

Why Apply?

If you’re passionate about creating positive change and supporting students’ success, this is the opportunity for you! Work alongside a dedicated team of educators and support staff, helping students reach their full potential.

Ready to join us? Apply today – we can’t wait to hear from you!

Employer Details:

• Onward Search is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in an employment with regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws and ordinances. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO.
• In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
• Onward Search is unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp or Independent Contractor arrangements at this time. All freelancers will be paid as W2 employees.
• Onward Search offers medical, dental, vision benefits, as well as a 401k program, for all eligible full time temporary assignments.
• Onward Search is a drug-free workplace.
• Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing and technology. Our clients are continuously turning to us to fill their open positions. Therefore, there is no application deadline for this position, as we are seeking candidates for this type of role across all our clients on an ongoing basis.