Special Education Teacher – Middle School (Grades 5–8)

Employer: Spotter Staffing
Client: Confidential School Partner
Location: Chicago, IL
Position Type: Full-Time, School-Based Contract
Assignment Duration: Remainder of the Current School Year, with Potential Renewal for the Following School Year

Position Overview

Spotter Staffing is seeking a dedicated Special Education Teacher to support middle school students in grades 5–8 at a highly regarded Chicago school. This position primarily focuses on providing specialized instruction in a self-contained classroom setting, while also supporting students through collaboration and co-teaching in the general education environment.

The ideal candidate is passionate about helping students with diverse learning needs succeed academically, socially, and emotionally during the critical middle school years. This individual will create a structured, supportive learning environment, adapt instruction to meet individual student needs, and collaborate with general education teachers and other school professionals to ensure students receive high-quality, individualized support.

This opportunity is available for the remainder of the current school year, with the potential for renewal into the following school year.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver specialized instruction to middle school students in grades 5–8 based on individual learning needs and academic goals.

• Support students in a self-contained special education classroom and collaborate with general education teachers as needed.

• Develop, implement, and monitor Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in accordance with student needs and applicable requirements.

• Adapt curriculum, instructional materials, assignments, and assessments to accommodate diverse learning abilities.

• Establish consistent classroom routines and positive behavior supports that promote engagement, independence, and academic growth.

• Collaborate with general education teachers, related service providers, paraprofessionals, and school leadership to support student success.

• Monitor academic, behavioral, and social-emotional progress and maintain accurate documentation.

• Communicate effectively with families and school staff regarding student progress, challenges, and instructional strategies.

• Help students develop the organizational, self-advocacy, and independent learning skills necessary for success in middle school.

• Foster a respectful, inclusive classroom environment that encourages student responsibility, confidence, and personal growth.

Qualifications

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with the appropriate special education endorsement for the assignment.

• Experience working with middle school students, preferably in a self-contained special education classroom.

• Knowledge of IEP development, differentiated instruction, behavior management, and evidence-based special education practices.

• Ability to adapt instruction across middle school academic subjects and accommodate varying learning needs.

• Strong classroom management, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to collaborate effectively with general education teachers and multidisciplinary teams.

• A patient, flexible, and student-centered approach to instruction.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Meaningful impact: Help students in grades 5–8 build the academic and life skills needed for continued success.

• Specialized teaching experience: Work with diverse learners while implementing individualized instructional strategies.

• Collaborative environment: Partner with educators and school professionals to support student achievement.

• Consistent opportunity: Secure an assignment for the remainder of the current school year, with potential renewal for the following school year.

• Dedicated staffing support: Work with Spotter Staffing throughout the assignment for ongoing communication and support.