ESL Teacher

The Connect Academy

Posted 2 months ago

Full Time

Carol Stream, Illinois

In Person

Smart Summary

Responsibilities

The teacher is responsible for delivering standards-aligned academic instruction within a structured, therapeutic environment while integrating social-emotional learning and behavior support. They collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to implement IEPs and foster a safe, engaging classroom for students with diverse needs.

Qualifications

Seeking a dedicated General Education Teacher to deliver standards-aligned academic instruction within a therapeutic day program. Responsibilities include integrating social-emotional learning, behavior support, and career readiness into daily lessons, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, and fostering a safe and engaging classroom. A valid Illinois State Board of Education Professional Educator License in at least one content area or ESL/Bilingual certification is required, along with the ability to support instruction across all subject areas.

Job Description

Description

General Education Teacher Job Description

Employment Type: Full-time | Exempt

Reports To: Site Administrator

Mission: The mission of our program is to provide our students with a high quality of education that offers instruction in both academic and social/emotional realms. The purpose of the academy is to provide students with social/emotional/behavioral issues a state-of-the-art therapeutic day program. Through hands-on instructional experiences, as well as a therapeutic approach in art, music, and movement, the program is designated to meet all of the needs of this diverse student population.

Job Summary: The General Education Teacher is responsible for delivering standards-aligned academic instruction within a structured, therapeutic learning environment. This role emphasizes the integration of social-emotional learning, behavior support, and career readiness into daily instruction. The teacher collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to support each student’s growth, using differentiated instruction, trauma-informed practices, and relationship-based strategies. The General Education Teacher fosters a safe, respectful, and engaging classroom environment that promotes resilience, accountability, skill development, and long-term success. 

Essential functions of the job may include but are not limited to the following:

  • Plans and delivers standards-based instruction aligned to grade-level expectations, while differentiating to meet the diverse academic needs of students.
  • Integrates social-emotional learning, executive functioning skills, and career exploration into daily instruction to support whole-child development.
  • Collaborates with special education staff to support the implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), accommodations, and modifications within the general education setting.
  • Uses ongoing formative and summative assessment data to monitor student progress, adjust instruction, and provide targeted interventions.
  • Employs a variety of instructional strategies, including hands-on, project-based, and experiential learning, to engage students and promote real-world application of skills.
  • Works collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team (e.g., social workers, behavior specialists, related service providers) to support student growth across academic and social-emotional domains.
  • Creates and maintains a structured, predictable, and supportive classroom environment that fosters safety, engagement, and positive relationships.
  • Implements classroom behavior management systems aligned with school-wide expectations and individualized behavior support plans.
  • Utilizes trauma-informed practices, de-escalation strategies, and restorative approaches to support students with emotional and behavioral needs.
  • Supports students in developing self-regulation, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills necessary for success in school and beyond.
  • Incorporates career awareness, life skills, and future planning into instruction to help students build a clear and positive path forward.
  • Maintains accurate and timely records of student progress, attendance, grades, and behavioral data as required.
  • Communicates regularly and professionally with parents/guardians regarding student progress, achievements, and areas of need.
  • Provides guidance, direction, and support to paraprofessionals and classroom support staff as assigned.
  • Participates in team meetings, professional learning communities, and ongoing professional development focused on instructional practices, trauma-informed care, and student support strategies.
  • Completes all school and state reporting requirements accurately and in a timely manner.
  • Other duties, as assigned.

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Match
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off

Requirements

License/Certification:

Illinois State Board of Education Professional Educator License in at least one content area OR ESL/Bilingual (Required)

Ability to support instruction in all content areas (Required)

Other Requirements:

Background Check, Physical Exam

The Connect Academy

Connect Academy, based in Carol Stream, IL, partners with school districts to provide therapeutic day programs for students with special needs. Our individualized approach supports academic, social, and emotional growth in a nurturing environment. We serve students from Pre-K through 12th grade focusing on reintegration into the student's home district. Our Programs: Connect Academy | Carol Stream, IL | Grades Pre-K–8th: Provides structured support, small classes, and therapeutic services. Connect Academy High School | Addison, IL | Grades 9th-12th: A supportive environment for high school students with special needs focusing on transitional skill development for like after school. Pathways Academy | Lombard, IL: Specialized program for students with autism. Why Choose Us? - Therapeutic Excellence: Art and Music Therapy, plus BCBA-guided strategies, address every child’s needs. - Expert Leadership: Our Advisory Board shapes innovative, effective programs. - Collaborative Partnerships: We work with families and districts to guide students toward success. At Connect Academy, we create opportunities for students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally through personalized education and therapy. 📞 Contact us to learn more: 630-822-8085 🌐 Visit: https://www.theconnectacademy.org/
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