Location: McHenry, IL
Type: Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Industry: Special Education
Reports To: Classroom Teacher
Alexander Leigh Center for Autism (ALCA) is a therapeutic day school in McHenry, Illinois. We are creative, collaborative, and outside-the-box thinkers dedicated to helping children with autism—and those who love them—thrive.
Our work environment includes:
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Teaching and training opportunities
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Growth and professional development
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A team of like-minded, mission-driven professionals
Are you pursuing a career in special education, ABA, or special needs support services?
ALCA is hiring Substitute Teacher – Program Managers (PMs) to support our classrooms, working directly with students with autism and other developmental support needs.
This is a perfect opportunity for:
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Recent graduates or student teachers
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Aspiring special education teachers or behavior analysts
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Passionate individuals who want to make a meaningful impact
We’re seeking compassionate, energetic, and adaptable professionals who are eager to grow in the field of special education. The ideal candidate will:
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Be passionate about supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities.
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Approach challenges with patience, empathy, and a positive attitude.
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Thrive in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
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Be open to learning new strategies in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and classroom management.
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Stay calm and solution-focused in high-stress or crisis situations.
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Communicate clearly and professionally with students, families, and colleagues.
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Take initiative, maintain strong organizational skills, and manage multiple priorities.
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Value professionalism, confidentiality, and continuous improvement.
If you are driven to make a difference and want to grow within a supportive, innovative school setting, ALCA is the place for you!
Our Benefits for 2026
Paid Time off
6 weeks of paid non-attendance time off + 8 additional days throughout the year
10 paid holidays
5 - 12 PTO days
3 Sick / Mental health days
Health and Wellness
Medical - 50-60% company paid premiums for employees
Short Term Disability - 50%/50% split with additional Long Term Disability at 100% company paid
Dental
Vision
FSA
Employee Assistance Program
401(K) with company match
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Assist Classroom Teachers in daily instruction and behavior programs
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Help write IEP goals and implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs)
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Train and support instructional assistant staff
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Analyze behavior and academic data; participate in parent meetings
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Support classroom staffing as needed
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Maintain accurate student records and materials
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Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members (BCBAs, therapists, program leads, etc.)
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Co-supervise and coach classroom staff
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Assist in developing lesson plans and organizing daily activities
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Participate in staff training, professional development, and school meetings
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Follow safety protocols and wear required protective equipment
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Complete all documentation accurately and in a timely manner
Physical Requirements
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Ability to lift or move students/materials up to 100 lbs
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Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl for extended periods (20+ minutes)
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Regularly walk, run, and perform physical intervention techniques (PCM)
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Work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions
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Engage in strenuous physical activity for at least 20 continuous minutes
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Bachelor’s Degree required (Education, Psychology, Speech, or related field preferred)
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ISBE Substitute Teaching License (Type 39) required
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Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
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Physically able to support students up to 100 lbs and respond in crisis situations
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PCM, CPR, and First Aid certifications (or willingness to obtain)
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Ability to remain calm and professional in high-stress situations
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Attention to detail and ability to multitask in a dynamic environment
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This position is non-exempt and may involve handling human body fluids, cleaning chemicals, or exposure to noise levels as part of OSHA safety standards.
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ALCA complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and will make reasonable accommodations as needed.
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All staff are Mandated Reporters of suspected child abuse or neglect.
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Equal Opportunity Employer
We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences. Accommodations provided per ADA.
