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 dedicated Special Education Teachers (LBS1) for the 2025–2026 school year. Multiple openings are available, including two resource classroom positions (Grades 2–3 and 4–5) in Melrose Park and one self-contained classroom position (Grades 3–5) in Garfield.

The Special Education Teacher will provide individualized instruction and support to elementary students with diverse learning needs. Depending on placement, teachers will either co-teach and deliver specialized instruction in a resource setting or lead a self-contained classroom for students requiring more intensive support. The ideal candidate is a certified LBS1 educator with strong collaboration skills, a passion for inclusive education, and a commitment to student growth and achievement.

Position Details

• Position: Special Education Teacher (LBS1 – Resource or Self-Contained)

• Location: In-person, Melrose Park & Garfield – Cook County, IL

• Schedule: Full-time, approximately 32–37.5 hours per week (hours TBD based on assignment)

• Start Date: ASAP

• Grade Levels: Grades 2–5

• School Year: 2025–2026

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) tailored to each student’s unique needs.

• Provide direct instruction in academic, behavioral, and social-emotional skill areas.

• Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusion and differentiated instruction.

• Modify curriculum, assignments, and assessments to meet student learning goals.

• Manage classroom behavior and implement individualized behavior support plans when needed.

• Maintain documentation, progress reports, and compliance with IDEA and district standards.

• Communicate regularly with families and team members regarding student progress and strategies for success.

Qualifications

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

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or related field (required); Master’s preferred.

• Experience teaching in resource or self-contained classrooms strongly preferred.

• Knowledge of IEP development, differentiated instruction, and data-driven intervention.

• Excellent communication, organization, and collaboration skills.

• Commitment to inclusive practices and student-centered learning.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay and comprehensive 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 helping students of all abilities achieve academic and personal success, this is the opportunity for you! Join a dedicated team of educators working collaboratively to create supportive, engaging learning environments in Cook County schools.

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.