Self Contained – Special Education Teacher

Special Education Teacher – Functional Life Skills Program (LOA)

Near Vernon Hills, IL |  8:30 AM – 3:30 PM |  Up to $56/hour
 Early October 2026 – End of January/Early February 2027

A highly supportive suburban school district in the Vernon Hills area is seeking a Special Education Teacher to step into a Functional Life Skills classroom supporting three students with complex learning and developmental needs during a leave of absence.

This is a smaller, relationship-driven classroom designed for students who require intensive academic, communication, behavioral, adaptive, and daily living support. Students in this program may have diagnoses that include autism, physical disabilities, developmental delays, and significant communication needs.

The classroom is built around individualized instruction, functional independence, life skills development, sensory regulation, communication growth, and collaborative therapeutic support. The teacher will work closely with paraprofessionals and related service providers including OT, PT, speech-language pathologists, social workers, BCBAs, and adaptive PE staff. 

The Special Education Teacher will:

• Deliver individualized instruction aligned with IEP goals
• Support functional academics, communication, adaptive behavior, and daily living skills
• Help students with transitions, routines, sensory regulation, and social interaction
• Collaborate with therapists and support staff throughout the school day
• Modify curriculum and classroom activities based on student needs
• Support students with physical and mobility-related accommodations when needed
• Maintain documentation, progress monitoring, and communication with families and staff

Ideal Background

• Illinois PEL with LBS1 endorsement
• Experience working with students with autism and/or significant disabilities
• Comfortable supporting students with behavioral, sensory, communication, and physical needs
• Strong collaboration and classroom structure skills
• Experience with life skills, self-contained, low-incidence, or functional programming preferred

Schedule & Compensation

• 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
• 30-minute unpaid lunch
• Starts early October 2026
• Assignment expected through late January or early February 2027
• Up to $56/hour depending on experience

This is an excellent fit for someone who enjoys smaller classrooms, relationship-based teaching, and helping students build practical skills that increase independence and long-term quality of life.