The demand for special education teachers in Illinois continues to rise as the population of students with special needs grows faster than the number of available, qualified special educators. High student-to-teacher ratios and teacher retention issues have intensified the need for skilled, compassionate educators throughout the state. To help address these shortages, the Illinois State Board of Education has launched initiatives such as the Teacher Vacancy Grant Pilot Program and other targeted efforts to attract and retain special educators.
Aurora University’s online Special Education Endorsement: Learning Behavior Specialist (LBS 1) program provides a flexible option for educators who want to make a difference in students’ lives. This guide outlines the licensure process in Illinois, including key requirements and prerequisites, provides an overview of the LBS 1 endorsement and who it serves, online special education programs in Illinois, and career opportunities for those who aspire to become an Illinois special education teacher.
Illinois Special Education Licensure Requirements
The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has specific requirements for students, educators, and schools to ensure equitable, high-quality education for all students. These requirements set learning standards for students and licensing standards for teachers. Educators who would like to obtain special education licensure in Illinois must have a bachelor’s degree, be a full-time teacher, complete an approved teacher preparation program, pass required exams, and apply for a license through the ISBE’s Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS).
Aside from having a bachelor’s degree and completing a teacher preparation program, the Professional Educator License (PEL) prerequisites include passing the relevant Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) content area and the edTPA performance assessment. This assessment is used by teacher preparation programs across the country to measure, emphasize, and support the skills and knowledge all teachers need to begin their careers. The ILTS content area covers a variety of subjects for teaching licensure, including core areas such as mathematics, science, and English language arts, as well as specialized areas like special education.
The Learning Behavior Specialist endorsement uses applied learning to prepare you with real-world skills you can implement immediately in your classroom. This LBS 1 endorsement in Illinois is ISBE-approved and aligns with Illinois Professional Teaching Standards and the Council for Exceptional Children Professional Teaching Standards.
Understanding the LBS 1 Special Education Endorsement
The online LBS 1 program at Aurora University consists of 18 credit hours led by expert faculty members. This six-course program covers topics like assessment modification, assistive technology, cognitive development, and collaborative teaching. Students also learn to implement curriculum-based assessment, provide differentiated instruction, and develop vital skills like disability identification. Essential topics such as disability law, intervention methods, reading disorders, and social-emotional development are also covered.
Special education teachers serve students with mild to moderate learning disabilities like dyslexia or dyscalculia, mild intellectual disabilities, communication disorders, and mild to moderate behavioral and/or emotional disorders. They instruct students in social, academic, and life skills to support their education while fostering a more inclusive learning environment.
Career opportunities for special education teachers in Illinois include adult education instructor, behavioral counselor, disability case manager, and elementary school SPED teacher. Typical work settings include public and private schools, resource centers, therapeutic day schools, and one-on-one tutoring in private homes.
As for the difference between LBS 1 and other special education endorsements, LBS 1 is a broad, foundational special education endorsement that allows educators to teach students ages five to 21 with a wide range of disabilities. Other special education endorsements are more specialized and allow educators to work in specific areas, such as curriculum adaptation. Teachers with other endorsements may also teach students with particular needs or those with multiple disabilities.
Learn more about AU's online Special Education Endorsement (LBS 1) program.
Graduates from AU's online Special Education Endorsement (LBS 1) program are equipped with real-world skills you can implement immediately in your classroom.
Learn MoreOnline Special Education Programs in Illinois
If you’re interested in becoming a special education teacher, there are many benefits to pursuing your special education endorsement in Illinois online. Aurora University’s online programs are designed for busy working professionals requiring maximum flexibility. You’ll have the support you need to balance your studies with your work schedule as you continue your current career.
AU’s online LBS 1 endorsement program covers all of the core coursework needed to earn the LBS 1 certification. No internship is required, and you can complete the program in one year. The engaging coursework is taught by experienced educators who will help you build the skills you need to become a successful special education teacher. The online LBS 1 program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), ensuring a rigorous education and an industry-aligned curriculum designed to help you succeed.
Career Outlook for Special Education Teachers in Illinois
The need for qualified special education teachers in Illinois is higher than ever, and a growing number of students require specialized support. According to CareerOneStop, the projected growth for special educator positions in Illinois is approximately 2% through 2032.
The salary expectations for special education teachers in Illinois vary by grade level, location, and experience. Entry-level positions start at around $45,000 to $49,000 per year, while more experienced teachers may earn $80,000 per year or more. Areas with high demand and large populations may pay higher salaries. For example, special education teachers in Chicago earn a median annual salary of $76,740.
School districts in and around dense urban areas like Chicago see some of the highest demand for special education teachers. After receiving your certification, professional development opportunities, like attending workshops and conferences, are available. Career advancement opportunities include leadership roles like special education consultant, diagnostician, or program director.
Change a Student’s Life Today
If you have an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) and you’re a full-time teacher, enrolling in the LBS 1 certification program provides a pathway to becoming a special education teacher in the state of Illinois. Aurora University’s online LBS 1 endorsement program is ISBE-approved and gives you the flexibility to succeed as you learn from experienced faculty.
Students receive the practical preparation they need for classroom success with the attention and support you’d expect from a small college. If you’re interested in making a difference in a special education student’s life today, apply online to AU’s online Special Education Endorsement (LBS 1) program to begin your journey toward a fulfilling special education career.
