Onward Search Education is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that connects educators, therapists, and school health professionals with schools across the country. We’re partnering with a school district to hire a Special Education Teacher (self contained) for 5th grade to join a supportive, student-centered team.

In this role, you’ll support elementary learners with diverse needs through individualized and small-group instruction. You’ll collaborate with colleagues to implement evidence-based strategies that promote engagement, skill development, and inclusion. By creating a structured, consistent environment and adapting instruction to meet each student’s needs, you’ll help learners access the curriculum and make meaningful progress.

Position Details:

• Location: Cook County, IL (in-person)

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, School Hours

• Start Date: January 5th, 2026

• End Date: May 29th, 2026

• Weekly Guaranteed Hours: 32+ hours per week

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Plans, modify curriculum, and track student progress for learners with diverse needs.

• Support students in accessing core academic content by collaborating with classroom teachers and differentiating instruction to meet individual goals.

• Utilize data-driven interventions and evidence-based instructional strategies to promote academic growth, skill acquisition, and increased engagement.

• Provide targeted small-group and individualized instruction to strengthen academic, social, and emotional development while managing student behavior and fostering inclusion.

• Create a structured, supportive learning environment that promotes independence, self-advocacy, and positive peer interactions.

• Collaborate with teachers, service providers, and families to ensure a cohesive and aligned approach to student learning.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Special Education, or a related field.

• Professional Educator License (PEL) with Special Education Endorsement in the state of Illinois.

• Prior experience supporting students with diverse learning needs in special education or inclusive classroom settings; experience with elementary learners preferred.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay and benefits package.

• Guaranteed weekly hours.

• 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.