Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Jobs in Illinois

POSITION SUMMARY

The Assistant Principal at Esperanza School serves as a key instructional and operational leader in a therapeutic day school setting serving students ages 5–22 with significant behavioral needs, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD). Working in close partnership with the Principal, the Assistant Principal provides direct supervision of staff, supports a trauma-informed and positive behavioral culture, and ensures compliance with students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This role requires a leader with deep expertise in special education, a commitment to the dignity and growth of every student, and the ability to manage the complex interplay of therapeutic, educational, and regulatory demands inherent to this specialized environment.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Leadership

• Partner with the Principal to develop, implement, and continuously improve curriculum, instruction, and assessment practices aligned to students' IEP goals and Illinois learning standards.
• Work with Senior School Department Leadership to observe and coach classroom teams on evidence-based instructional strategies for students with ASD, IDD, and complex behavioral profiles.
• Monitor student progress data across academic, communication, adaptive, and behavioral domains; identify trends and facilitate data-driven instructional adjustments.
• Ensure IEP implementation fidelity and support staff in understanding and executing individualized accommodations, modifications, and positive behavior support plans.
• Develop & present professional development related to school policies & procedures, special education law, and other relevant topics.
• Continually assess & develop school policies & procedures

Staff Supervision & Support

• Assist supervisors of the special education teachers, behavior technicians, classroom paraprofessionals, and related service support staff as assigned.
• Conduct formal and informal observations, provide timely and constructive feedback, and complete annual performance evaluations.
• Support recruiting, onboarding, and retention of high-quality staff in collaboration with the Principal and HR.
• Assist with conducting staff disciplinary investigations
• Address staff performance concerns proactively through coaching, improvement plans, and, when necessary, disciplinary processes in accordance with agency policy.
• Cultivate a collaborative, strengths-based team culture that reflects Esperanza's mission and values.
• Assist with the supervision of the Program Support Specialist.
• Maintain current Safety Care certification and ensure staff training compliance.

Family & Community Engagement

• Build meaningful, culturally responsive relationships with families and guardians; serve as a point of contact for concerns, IEP questions, and school-to-home communication.
• Participate in and, at times, facilitate IEP meetings, parent conferences, and transition planning meetings (when needed).
• Partner with referring school districts to ensure coordinated service delivery.
• Serve as the contact person for any guardian concern about their child or Esperanza School

Operations & Compliance

• Assist the Principal in managing day-to-day school operations including scheduling, staff coverage, and substitute coordination.
• Review monthly student attendance & billing
• Ensure compliance with ISBE special education regulations, District requirements, and Esperanza agency policies.
• Maintain accurate and confidential student records in accordance with FERPA and agency documentation standards.
• Oversee student transportation coordination in collaboration with transportation liaisons and families.
• Assume duties of the Principal in their absence.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Licensure

• Master's degree in Special Education, Educational Administration, or a closely related field required.
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with an Administrative endorsement required, or ability to obtain within one year of hire.
• LBS1 (Learning Behavior Specialist I) or BCBA credential preferred but not required

Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years of professional experience in special education, preferably in a therapeutic day school or self-contained setting serving students with ASD, IDD, or emotional/behavioral disorders (EBD).
• Minimum 1–2 years of supervisory, lead teacher, department head, or administrative experience.
• Demonstrated experience with IEP development, facilitation, and compliance monitoring.
• Experience implementing ABA-based instructional strategies, PBIS frameworks, and crisis de-escalation protocols.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Deep understanding of the academic, social-emotional, communication, and behavioral needs of students with autism and intellectual disabilities.
• Ability to lead and inspire a multidisciplinary team in a fast-paced, high-needs environment.
• Strong written and oral communication skills; ability to partner effectively with families from diverse backgrounds.
• Proficiency with student information and IEP management systems (e.g., Enrich, IEP Direct, or similar).
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The Assistant Principal must be able to actively move throughout the school building, including classrooms, hallways, and common areas. The role may require the ability to intervene physically in student situations using approved CPI or restraint techniques when necessary to ensure safety. Candidate must be able to lift up to 100 pounds and demonstrate the physical capacity to respond to emergencies. Reasonable accommodations will be made in accordance with applicable law.

Pay: $80,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person