Learning Specialist Lead

Special Education Teacher and Special Education Lead Sola Academy Evanston Position Summary: Our Non-Public Special Education School, Sola Academy, is seeking a passionate and experienced Special Education Teacher Leader to join our team in a leadership role beginning ASAP. This position combines direct teaching responsibilities with leadership in special education compliance and case manager support. The Lead will provide high-quality, individualized instruction while overseeing IEP compliance and coaching fellow educators to support student success. This is both a teaching and leadership role. The ideal candidate is an expert in 1:1 and small group instruction, experienced in guiding IEP processes, and skilled at building collaborative, student-centered teams. Pay Range: $40.00'45.00 per hour USD Key Responsibilities Include: Teaching & Student Support (Direct Instructional Duties): Deliver individualized and small group instruction aligned to student IEPs in grades 6'12. Differentiate curriculum to meet diverse academic and social-emotional learning (SEL) needs. Serve as a mentor and role model in a trauma-informed, inclusive school culture. Build strong, trusting relationships with students and families. Maintain consistent communication with families and related service providers regarding student progress and goals. Case Management Support and Compliance Leadership: Assist Case Manager in overseeing schoolwide case management practices, ensuring compliance with IDEA and Illinois special education laws. Create and maintain the IEP and re-evaluation calendar to meet all required deadlines. Attend district IEP meetings as necessary, collaborating with school teams and external stakeholders. Assist in overseeing quarterly progress reporting for all students with IEPs. Coach teachers in progress monitoring, data collection, and daily goal charting for IEPs. Monitor and support implementation of IEP accommodations and modifications, including for state and schoolwide testing. Collaborate with the leadership team on individual student graduation planning and academic pathways. Facilitate and lead student-centered instructional meetings with teaching teams to review student progress and adjust supports. Staff Development & School Leadership: Mentor and coach new and experienced special education teachers. Promote best practices in inclusive instruction, data-driven decision-making, and IEP fidelity. Model excellence in classroom practice and support teacher growth through feedback and instructional leadership. Other Duties as Assigned Qualifications Required: Bachelor's Degree required; Master's Degree in Special Education or Educational Leadership preferred. Valid Illinois PEL with LBS1 endorsement. Minimum of 2 years of experience in special education teaching and IEP case management; leadership or coaching experience strongly preferred. Demonstrated excellence in both instruction and compliance-related responsibilities. Competencies Desired: Expertise in individualized, data-informed instruction and special education law. Strong interpersonal, leadership, and coaching skills. Ability to manage complex schedules, deadlines, and team collaboration. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Flexible, compassionate, and mission-driven professional demeanor. Commitment to inclusive education, equity, and continuous improvement. Benefits: Note that pay may vary based on location, skills, and experience. We offer a comprehensive benefits package for full time employees which generally includes: - Medical, dental, and vision plans - An opportunity to contribute to a Health Savings Account (HSA) - Tax-advantaged commuter benefits - Employee assistance program - Sick time, paid holidays and vacation in accordance with company policy and state law - Accident and life insurance as well as short- and long-term disability - 401(k) plan with company match, based on eligibility We offer a package for part time employees which generally includes: - Sick time and paid holidays in accordance with company policy - Tax-advantaged commuter benefits - Employee assistance program - 401(k) plan with company match, based on eligibility This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. If a bonus applies, more information will be given at offer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex. RequirementsPlease see above