Description
You can make a difference in the lives of young people as a Special Education Teacher for Thresholds High School! An Illinois State Board of Education certified therapeutic day school, Thresholds High School serves students ages 16 to 21 years old with ongoing serious mental health needs. Operating year-round, the school provides a distinct combination of flexibility and support to help students achieve both their high school diploma and their transition goals. Students also benefit from the Young Adult Program's rich therapeutic supports that address anxiety, frustration, school refusal, and other issues that derailed their academic success in other schools.
As the lead teacher in the classroom, you will educate a class of up to 8 students. You will develop a course of study according to curriculum guidelines of the school district and state requirements. These lesson plans will be tailored for three or more levels of academic ability and previous achievement, and in alignment with the students' IEPs. You will supervise the students in the classroom and instruct the class each day with the assistance of a teacher's aide. You will monitor and grade student performance, supporting the youth in their academic achievement, graduating, and preparing for their next steps. Documentation is also key, so you will conduct standardized tests in accordance with district policies and state laws as well as keep records of academic performance, attendance, and social acclimation.
The culture at Thresholds is collaborative and supportive, providing you with the tools and resources you need for the best student care. Because students come from a multitude of suburban and Chicago home districts, Thresholds High School works closely with these school districts and the Young Adult Program treatment team. Opportunities for training and professional development will deepen your knowledge and expand your skills in harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and other evidence-based practices.
To succeed in this role, you need:
Passion for mental health advocacyEffective communication and relationship-building skillsPatience and willingness to meet youth where they're atGood writing skills and attention to detailPrevious experience working with high school aged children dealing with mental illnessTo be able to perform Therapeutic Crisis Intervention therapeutic restraint techniques, which require moderate exertion, being able to lift 40 pounds, and the mobility to lower self to a kneeling position on the floor. This training is provided and required by Thresholds.Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in Education or Special Education is required. Master's degree preferred.Current Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS1) license required.What sets Thresholds apart:
No after school or weekend responsibilitiesCompetitive pay - Base Salary: $58,400 - 64,100 annually
Subject to increase based on education and experience Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation)Dental insurance, vision insurance,4 medical insurance plans403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer matchRobust employee assistance program (EAP)Public service loan forgivenessThresholds is a mission-driven agency with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We foster an environment where all feel valued and respected, a place where every employee can be themselves, thrive, and support the agency's mission. Click here to learn more.
One of the oldest and largest community mental health organizations in Illinois, we pride ourselves in being a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace and one of Chicago's 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For, several years in a row.
#LI-SN1
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
