High School Special Education Teacher

About Intrinsic Schools

Intrinsic Schools is a public charter network committed to reimagining secondary education so that every student is prepared for postsecondary success and meaningful, world-changing endeavors. We believe deeply in the potential of our students and in the power of great teaching, strong relationships, and intentional use of technology to personalize learning.

Our model prioritizes both academic excellence and the development of essential non-cognitive skills such as empathy, independence, perseverance, and intellectual curiosity. Intrinsic serves diverse student communities across two campuses: Belmont (grades 7–12) and Downtown (grades 9–12). Our student population is 90% students of color, 86% eligible for free or reduced lunch, and 19% students with disabilities. We view this diversity as a strength and seek educators who are committed to equity, inclusion, and high expectations for all learners.

Our Educational Model

• Innovative Instructional Model (POD):
  Teachers work in collaborative POD teams to serve groups of approximately 60 students. Students rotate through teacher-led instruction, independent and personalized learning via technology, small-group work, and project-based learning, all aligned to individual learning needs.
• Opportunities & Choice (C Day):
  One day per week, students select academic supports (e.g., tutoring, study groups, office hours) and enrichment opportunities aligned to their interests, fostering ownership, agency, and engagement.
• Postsecondary Support:
  From day one, Intrinsic students receive comprehensive postsecondary planning and support, including counseling, early college credit opportunities, and financial guidance, ensuring alignment between student goals and post-graduation pathways.

Job Summary

The Classroom Teacher is responsible for planning and delivering rigorous, engaging instruction in a secondary learning environment that supports academic growth and personal development for all students. Teachers work under the supervision of the Principal and in close collaboration with instructional coaches, POD teammates, and support staff to continuously improve practice and outcomes for students.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver rigorous, standards-aligned instruction that promotes active learning and deep understanding
• Analyze student progress data to inform instruction, interventions, and flexible groupings
• Provide students with clear, timely, and actionable feedback that supports growth and mastery
• Integrate instructional technology effectively to personalize learning and increase student agency
• Uphold Intrinsic’s student culture by consistently enforcing expectations outlined in the Student Code of Conduct
• Serve as an advisor by mentoring a group of students, facilitating daily advisory lessons, and conducting individual conferences to monitor academic and social-emotional progress
• Design and lead a C Day club aligned to personal interests and student engagement
• Support student learning beyond the classroom through weekly office hours and targeted academic support
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date gradebooks and student records
• Collaborate with special education staff and other support team members to meet the needs of all learners
• Demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the postsecondary success of every student
• Engage actively in instructional coaching cycles, including data analysis, observation, feedback, video reflection, and practice
• Participate in school-wide professional development, POD planning, grade-level and content-area meetings, and data-driven instruction meetings
• Communicate proactively and professionally with families regarding student progress, strengths, and challenges
• Participate in school events, host student-led conferences, and attend IEP meetings as required

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field from an accredited institution
• Illinois Professional Educator License with appropriate content-area endorsement (required prior to hire); ESL endorsement preferred
• Comfort using educational technology tools, with curiosity and willingness to learn about emerging tools, including AI
• Ability to build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with students, families, and colleagues
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated professionalism, including punctuality, preparedness, accountability, follow-through, and effective collaboration
• Ability to consistently meet daily and weekly deadlines that support high-quality instruction and team success
• Strong work ethic, reflective mindset, and commitment to continuous improvement

Equal Opportunity Employer

Intrinsic Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Intrinsic Schools ensures equal employment opportunities regardless of race, creed, gender, color, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation or disability. Intrinsic Schools has a policy of active recruitment of qualified minority teachers and non-certified employees. Any individual needing assistance in making an application for any opening should contact the Department of Human Resources.