EDUCATOR OPT. B (Language Arts)-IDOC Shawnee

Illinois Education Job Bank; Illinois; On-site; USD 67,000 - 119,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Pension plan

Paid parental leave

Paid vacation days

Paid holidays

Job summary

The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) seeks a Language Arts Educator to provide standards-based instruction in a secure educational setting, developing reading, writing, speaking, listening and critical thinking skills. The role emphasizes differentiated instruction, assessments, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.

Qualified candidates hold an ISBE PEL for Secondary Language Arts and have experience with behavior modification and supporting students with emotional

Qualifications

• Requires ISBE Professional Educator License (PEL) for Secondary Education, Language Arts (Grades 9-12).
• Two+ years applying behavior modification principles preferred.
• Experience supporting students with emotional impairments preferred.
• Ability to evaluate students using provided tools to inform objectives preferred.

Responsibilities

• Administers classroom and individual instruction to participating youth in Language Arts.
• Develops curricula within Core Curriculum policy for Language Arts.
• Measures student progress with assessments and maintains records.
• Collaborates with administrators, special education staff, health professionals, security, and other team members.

Skills

Classroom management

Trauma-informed approach

Differentiated instruction

Literacy development

Collaboration

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Behavior modification

Special education support

Education

ISBE PEL Language Arts (Secondary Education)

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

EDUCATOR OPT. B (Language Arts)-IDOC Shawnee

Duties

Position Overview

The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) is seeking a Language Arts Educator to provide engaging, standards-based instruction that develops students' reading, writing, speaking, listening and critical thinking skills within a secure educational setting. Working with youth and young adults who have diverse academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs, the educator creates a structured, trauma-informed learning environment that promotes academic growth, personal responsibility, and successful reintegration into school, work, and the community. Responsibilities include planning and delivering differentiated instruction aligned with Illinois Learning Standards, assessing student progress, maintaining accurate educational records, and collaborating with administrators, special education staff, behavioral health professionals, security personnel, and other members of the multidisciplinary team. The educator uses evidence-based instructional practices to support literacy development while fostering student engagement, resilience, and confidence. The successful candidate demonstrates flexibility, professionalism, and strong classroom management skills while maintaining safety, security, and accountability at all times. They build positive relationships with students through consistency, respect, and high expectations, recognizing that education plays a critical role in reducing recidivism and preparing students for success. This position requires commitment to continuous improvement, collaboration, and providing meaningful educational opportunities that empower students to achieve their academic and personal goal. IDJJ encourages all qualified and interested applicants to apply!

Essential Functions

• Under general supervision, administers classroom and individual instruction to participating youth in the assigned subject area(s).
• Within the purview of the Core Curriculum policy, develops curricula for each assigned teaching subject.
• Develops examination tools designed to measure each students’ strengths, weaknesses, and progress.
• Prepares and keeps detailed records and reports on attendance, achievement, and individual progress and needs of the students.
• Directs students in recreational, social, or other extracurricular activities.
• Attends and participates in discussion and planning at regular teachers’ meetings, including counselor‑teacher meetings, team meetings, and staff development.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires possession of a current and valid Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Professional Educator License (PEL) with Secondary Education, Grades 9-12, in Language Arts.

Preferred Qualifications (In Order of Significance)

• Prefers at least two (2) years of experience implementing behavior modification principles.
• Prefers at least two (2) years of experience implementing educational support to students with extreme and profound emotional impairments.
• Prefers at least one (1) year of experience evaluating students by utilizing provided tools and/or programs to assist in behavioral objective creation.
• Prefers at least one (1) year of experience evaluating students’ individual educational needs.
• Prefers at least one (1) year of experience guiding and directing staff regarding the necessary training and educational development of a student.
• Prefers at least two (2) years of experience with Microsoft Word and/or equivalent computer software.
• Prefers at least one (1) year of experience with Microsoft Excel and/or equivalent computer software.
• Prefers at least one (1) year of experience with Microsoft Outlook and/or equivalent computer software.
• Prefers the ability to demonstrate patience and tolerance with a wide range of behavior.

Conditions of Employment

• Requires the ability to pass an IDOC/IDJJ background check.
• Requires ability to pass a drug screen. The use of unauthorized drugs by an employee, regardless of position held, is prohibited.
• Requires ability to use the English language in preparing and delivering instructions.
• Requires the ability to travel in performance of duties and to attend meetings, conferences, and other related events.

The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description

Salary/Benefits

The Department of Juvenile Justice offers an excellent benefits package including:

• Health, Life, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• Pension Plan
• Paid parental leave
• Pre-tax benefits programs including but not limited to: Deferred Compensation, Medical, Daycare, etc.
• Employees earn twelve (12) paid Sick Days annually
• New Employees earn ten (10) paid Vacation Days their first year of service and can earn up to twenty-five (25) paid Vacation Days annually (based on years of service)
• Employees earn three (3) paid Personal Days annually (pro-rated based on start date)
• Thirteen-Fourteen (13-14) paid holidays annually (based on start date)
• Flexible work schedules in many program areas (remote workmaybe an option for certain positions)
• Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary: $6,044/month; Full Range: $6,044 - $10,645/month
• Work Hours: Tuesday-Thursday (7:00AM - 5:00PM) Friday (7:00AM - 4:30PM)
  Anticipated Hybrid Work Schedule Availability: Not available, fully in office

Additional Notes

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

About the Agency

The mission of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) is to build youth skills and strengthen families by promoting community safety and positive youth outcomes. Over 900 staff members from across various departments—security, programming, education, mental health, and more—collaborate with the understanding that youth are physically, emotionally, and cognitively different from adults. The department provides extensive services to young people through a developmental, treatment-focused model of care that builds youth resiliency, engages families, and promotes community safety at the five youth facilities it operates across the state. IDJJ serves and houses approximately 150 youth and is responsible for approximately 500 youth on Aftercare in various Illinois’ communities.