ou 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 advocacy
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills
• Patience and willingness to meet youth where they’re at
• Good writing skills and attention to detail
• Previous experience working with high school aged children dealing with mental illness
• To 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 responsibilities
• Competitive pay - Base Salary: $57,000 - 67,000 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 plans
• 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match 
• Robust employee assistance program (EAP)
• Public service loan forgiveness 

Thresholds 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.

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