Chicago, IL | Full-Time | $65,000-$85,000 + Bonus
Join the Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School (O-School) and teach in a therapeutic, relationship-centered environment serving students with emotional disabilities, autism, and complex behavioral and mental health needs.
If you're passionate about inclusive education, collaboration, and whole-child development, this is an opportunity to do deeply impactful work alongside a highly supportive team.
At O-School, you're never teaching alone. Our model is intentionally designed for support, collaboration, and student success.
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5:1 student-to-teacher ratio supporting highly tailored, student-centered instruction
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Strong classroom teams including:
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Co-Teachers
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Teacher Assistants
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1:1 Instructional Aides
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Crisis Intervention Specialists
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Interdisciplinary collaboration with clinicians, therapists, and behavioral specialists
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A structured, trauma-informed, and relationship-based approach
For over 100 years, O-School has provided innovative educational and therapeutic services to students ages 8-22 in a safe, nurturing environment.
Salary: $65,000-$85,000/year based on experience and credentials
Bonus: Eligibility for performance and/or retention bonuses
Benefits:
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Health: Medical, dental, and vision insurance (effective Day 1)
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Financial: 403(b) with Roth option; HSA/FSA; company-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance
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Time Off:
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Up to 7 weeks of paid school breaks annually
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6 personal days, 10 sick days, 11 holidays
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Growth: Tuition reimbursement and ongoing professional development
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Wellness: Employee Assistance Program
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Family Support: 529 College Savings Program
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Monday-Friday schedule: 8:15 AM - 4:30 PM
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Shortened summer academic schedule
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Time off in July and August
As a Special Education Teacher, you'll play a central role in both the academic and emotional growth of your students:
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Design and deliver IEP-aligned, differentiated lesson plans
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Use creative, engaging instructional strategies tailored to individual needs
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Implement therapeutic and trauma-informed practices to support emotional regulation
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Collaborate closely with clinicians, behavior specialists, and classroom staff
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Foster a structured, supportive classroom environment
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Partner with families and multidisciplinary teams
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Write and manage IEPs and student progress reports
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Contribute to a holistic, therapeutic school culture
You'll succeed at O-School if you:
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Believe in relationship-based, student-centered teaching
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Are patient, flexible, and emotionally resilient
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Value team collaboration and shared responsibility
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Are passionate about supporting students with complex learning and behavioral needs
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Use or are eager to learn strengths-based and trauma-informed practices
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Illinois Professional Educator License with LBS1 endorsement
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Bachelor's degree in Special Education or related field
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Master's degree
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Experience with students with emotional disabilities, autism, or behavioral needs
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Experience in therapeutic, alternative, or specialized school settings
At O-School, we believe every student deserves dignity, connection, and the opportunity to succeed. Our educators combine strong academics with clinical insight to help students grow in meaningful, lasting ways.
You'll join a community that prioritizes support, innovation, and professional growth-so you can do your best work and make a real impact.
If you're a dedicated educator eager to make a difference in a highly supportive environment, we encourage you to apply today.
Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School is an equal opportunity employer.
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
