What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Teacher 2026-27 School Year position at Birch Agency?
Job Title: Special Education Teacher (Elementary & Middle School)
Location: Near Joliet, Illinois
School Year: 2026–2027
Employer: Birch Agency
Pay Rate: Starting at $50/hour (W2)
Description
Birch Agency is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Special Education Teacher to work with elementary and middle school students in self-contained classroom settings for the 2026–2027 school year. This is a full-time, in-person position supporting students with significant behavioral needs in a structured and supportive learning environment.
Program Description
This program is specifically designed for students who require additional behavioral support to succeed outside of the general education setting. Class sizes are intentionally kept small, with no more than 13 students on caseload, allowing for individualized attention and meaningful intervention.
All students have established Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs). The program emphasizes teaching replacement behaviors, improving self-regulation, and building strong social-emotional skills to support long-term success.
Student Needs May Include
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Location: Near Joliet, Illinois
School Year: 2026–2027
Employer: Birch Agency
Pay Rate: Starting at $50/hour (W2)
Description
Birch Agency is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Special Education Teacher to work with elementary and middle school students in self-contained classroom settings for the 2026–2027 school year. This is a full-time, in-person position supporting students with significant behavioral needs in a structured and supportive learning environment.
Program Description
This program is specifically designed for students who require additional behavioral support to succeed outside of the general education setting. Class sizes are intentionally kept small, with no more than 13 students on caseload, allowing for individualized attention and meaningful intervention.
All students have established Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs). The program emphasizes teaching replacement behaviors, improving self-regulation, and building strong social-emotional skills to support long-term success.
Student Needs May Include
- Elopement
- Defiance
- Physical aggression
- Refusal behaviors
- Provide individualized instruction aligned with IEP goals
- Implement and monitor FBAs and BIPs with fidelity
- Use evidence-based behavioral strategies to support student success
- Foster a safe, structured, and positive classroom environment
- Collaborate with support staff, therapists, and families
- Track and report student progress regularly
- Valid Special Education Teaching License (Illinois or transferable)
- Experience working with students with behavioral challenges preferred
- Strong classroom management and de-escalation skills
- Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
- Competitive pay starting at $50/hour
- Supportive work environment
- Manageable caseload sizes
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in students’ lives
- Access to professional development and resources
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