Diverse Leaner Teacher ESL/ELL (Special Education Teacher)

ELL/ESL Special Education Diverse Learner Teacher

Employment Type: Full-Time, Contract
Job Location: Chicago, IL

Job Description

A school district in Chicago, Illinois is seeking a qualified ELL/ESL Special Education Diverse Learner Teacher for a full-time, school-based contract. This position supports diverse learners, including students with disabilities and English language learners, through specialized instruction, language development, and evidence-based academic and behavioral interventions. Candidates must hold a valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with an LBS1 endorsement and demonstrate a strong belief that students from low-income communities can become college and career ready.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct, differentiated instruction to diverse learners, including students with disabilities and English language learners
• Develop, implement, and manage Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in compliance with IDEA and Illinois special education requirements
• Deliver culturally and linguistically responsive instruction that supports English language development and academic achievement
• Adapt curriculum, instructional materials, assessments, and classroom activities to meet individual student needs
• Demonstrate mastery of assigned academic subjects and evidence-based behavioral interventions
• Implement positive behavior supports and structured classroom management strategies
• Monitor student performance, collect data, and adjust instruction based on IEP goals and language development needs
• Collaborate with general education teachers, bilingual and ESL educators, administrators, related service providers, and families
• Participate in and facilitate IEP meetings, parent conferences, and multidisciplinary team meetings
• Maintain accurate student records, progress reports, service documentation, and compliance materials
• Promote high expectations and prepare students for success in college, careers, and independent living
• Adapt effectively to changing priorities, student needs, and school conditions

Qualifications

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) required
• Valid Illinois Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS1) endorsement required
• ESL, bilingual education, or English learner endorsement preferred
• Demonstrated knowledge of special education instruction, IEP compliance, language development, and behavioral interventions
• Belief that students from low-income communities can become college and career ready
• Ability to pass background checks, fingerprinting, and district clearances
• Licensing and credentialing support may be available for eligible candidates

Education

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution required
• Degree in Special Education, English as a Second Language, Bilingual Education, or a related field preferred

Experience

• One to five years of teaching experience preferred
• Previous special education or diverse learner teaching experience preferred
• Experience supporting English language learners in inclusive or specialized classroom settings preferred
• Experience developing and implementing IEPs, academic interventions, and behavior plans preferred

Skills

• Demonstrated mastery of academic subjects and behavioral intervention strategies
• Strong understanding of differentiated, culturally responsive, and language-supportive instruction
• High expectations for personal performance, team performance, and student achievement
• Flexibility in responding to changing priorities, student needs, and school conditions
• Demonstrated initiative, creativity, and problem-solving ability
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills
• Strong classroom management, progress-monitoring, and instructional planning abilities
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary and multilingual teams
• Excellent organizational, documentation, and time-management skills
• Commitment to supporting students from diverse cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds

Work Hours

• Monday–Friday
• 8:00 AM–3:30 PM
• Approximately 37–40 hours per week

Compensation & Benefits

This contract position offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

• Weekly pay
• Competitive hourly compensation based on experience and credentials
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
• 401(k) retirement plan options
• Ongoing clinical and administrative support throughout the assignment
• Professional development and continuing education resources
• Opportunity for contract renewal or extension
• Housing and travel assistance for eligible candidates

Equal Opportunity Employment

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Compensation for this position ranges from $25.00 to $45.00. Eligible candidates may also receive healthcare benefits, housing, and meals/incidentals. Full details of our healthcare benefits plan can be found here. This posting is open for 60 days after the posting date.