Northwestern Illinois Association (NIA) is a regional governmental agency dedicated to providing special education support to 68 school districts across Northwestern Illinois. Our mission is to partner with schools to meet the unique needs of students, and we empower our team with professional growth opportunities, comprehensive benefits, and a values-driven culture.
The Special Education Teacher must hold LBS1 Certification with the Illinois State Board of Education and works 182 days per year for 7 hours per day and earns 52,359 - $105,868 , depending on experience.
This position is a full-time position assigned to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Department under the direct supervision of the Education Department Operations Executive and/or Supervisor. The Special Education Teacher works with students with a documented hearing loss who attend school in a regular or special education setting, providing direct instruction, consultation and technical assistance to staff, and other instructional and support services as needed. Although some experience with sign language is preferred, it is not necessary for this position. A sign language interpreter will be assigned to interpret for this position.
Special Education Teacher Job Duties:
- Develop and implement IEP goals based on student needs; provide direct instruction in academic, behavioral, and social-emotional areas.
- Adapt curriculum and instructional strategies to support student access and success in general education settings.
- Collaborate with educators, families, and related service providers to coordinate services and support inclusive practices.
- Monitor and document student progress, participate in IEP meetings, and ensure compliance with special education procedures.
- Provide consultation, training, and resources to staff; engage in ongoing professional development and team collaboration.
- Demonstrates strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills; proficient with educational technology (Microsoft Office, Google Suite); knowledgeable in special education laws, IEP implementation, and inclusive practices; able to work independently and as part of a team.
Special Education Teacher Benefits:
- Group Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance : Available for employees working 0.75 FTE or more, with PPO and HSA options.
- Defined-Benefit Pension Plans: As a local governmental agency, NIA employees who are eligible participate in the Teachers' Retirement System of Illinois (TRS), providing a stable, defined-benefit pension that ensures financial security in retirement.
- Learn more about TRS at
- Additional Retirement Savings Options: NIA also offers access to 403(b) and 457 retirement savings plans. These are optional, employee-funded plans that provide additional opportunities for tax-advantaged savings, helping you build a more robust retirement strategy.
- Paid Personal Leave and Sick Leave: Based on the number of days worked.
- Telemedicine: Access to 1800MD telemedicine services at no cost.
- Summer Work Opportunities: Opportunities to pick up additional summer work and earn extra pay.
- Summers Off with Year-Round Pay
- Expert Feedback and Evaluation : Receive guidance and evaluation from leaders who understand your expertise
- Ready Access to Equipment and Testing Materials
- Ongoing Professional Development : Enhance your knowledge and skills for school-based services
- Collaborative Environment : Engage in monthly meetings, roundtable discussions, and collaboration time with colleagues
- Regular 1:1 Check-Ins : Stay connected with your leaders through regular check-ins and team meetings
- Mission-Driven : We are deeply committed to partnering with schools to meet the unique needs of students, making a real difference in their lives every day.
- Leadership in Education : Serving 68 school districts across Northern Illinois, NIA is recognized as a leader in providing exceptional special education support.
- Innovation : We continuously improve our services and embrace new technologies to enhance education and meet the evolving needs of our students.
- Employee-Focused : We invest in your growth with professional development opportunities, a supportive work environment, and recognition of your contributions.
Quality of Life : Live and work in Northern Illinois, known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant communities, and easy access to Chicago.
Education and Licensure
1. Professional Educator's License (PEL) with LBS1 Endorsement (required)
2. Basic knowledge or American Sign Language (preferred)
Compensation details: 68 Yearly Salary
PIf8c57d3fac7d-1109
