Special Education Teacher - Data-Driven Growth & Equity

ReNEW Schools; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A Chicago Charter School is seeking a Special Education Teacher for the 2026-27 school year. The ideal candidate will internalize and deliver impactful lesson plans while ensuring academic success for all learners, particularly those with special needs. Strong relationship-building and effective communication skills are essential. A Bachelor’s degree and a valid IL Professional Educator License (PEL) are required. This role plays a critical part in fostering an inclusive educational environment in South Chicago.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree is required.
• Teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school is preferred but not required.
• Eligibility to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Responsibilities

• Deliver lesson plans that are rigorous and engaging.
• Build supportive classroom culture.
• Ensure IEP accommodations are met.
• Use data to drive student growth.
• Communicate regularly with families.

Skills

Growth mindset

Strong relationship building

Effective communication

Instructional strategies

Education

Bachelor’s degree

IL Professional Educator License (PEL) as a Learning Behavior Specialist

Job description

Great Lakes Academy - Special Education Teacher - 2026-27

About Great Lakes Academy

Great Lakes Academy (GLA) is a high-performing, single-site charter school in South Chicago. Core to our mission is equipping every student with the academic foundation, critical thinking skills, and strength of character needed to thrive in high school, college, and beyond.

Our teachers work relentlessly to close opportunity gaps, and the results are undeniable. On the 2024 Illinois Assessment of Readiness, GLA had the highest percentage of students reaching proficiency in ELA and Math among all elementary schools in Hyde Park, Woodlawn, South Shore, and South Chicago. We also ranked in the top 20% statewide for ELA growth and the top 6% for math growth.

As we look ahead to the 2026–27 school year, we are raising the bar even higher. We are seeking passionate, data-driven teachers who believe all students can achieve at the highest levels and are committed to doing the work to make that belief a reality.

Job Overview

A Great Lakes Academy Teacher will be part of a team of talented, committed staff working to positively impact outcomes for students on the Southeast Side of Chicago. Our Teachers take responsibility for the high academic achievement and character development of every child in their classrooms. Special Education Teachers typically co-teach in core general education classes across multiple grade levels to ensure access and support for all learners.

Job Responsibilities

• Internalize and deliver lesson plans that are rigorous, relevant, and engaging
• Lead a safe, structured, supportive classroom culture by building relationships with students, leveraging systems & routines, and consistently implementing GLA’s code of conduct
• Ensure students receive accommodations outlined in the Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
• Use academic data to inform whole-group, small-group, and individual instruction and to drive student growth and achievement
• Establish relationships with students’ families, communicating frequently and partnering in student success
• Consistently model the Great Lakes Academy Be GREAT virtues: Gratitude, Respect, Excellence, Accountability, and Truthfulness
• Collaborate with all staff members across team, grade level and subject area
• Actively participate in weekly 1:1 coaching and regular professional development (PD), including our three-week summer PD in July/August

Competencies

• Belief in and alignment with Great Lakes Academy’s core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiable
• Growth-oriented: Self-reflective with a growth mindset and ability to accept and implement feedback
• Responsible: Willingness to work hard, be flexible, followthrough, and overcome obstacles in the pursuit of achieving challenging goals
• Kindness: Strong relationship builder with students, families, and other staff members
• Mastery of and enthusiasm for your academic subject
• Willingness to place student achievement as highest goal
• Committed to educational equity and serving Black and Brown students on the South Side of Chicago

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Teaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred, but not required
• Eligibility to work in the United States on a full-time basis
• Valid IL Professional Educator License (PEL) as a Learning Behavior Specialist required

As an equal opportunity employer, Great Lakes Academy hires without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other category protected by applicable law