ExcelPrep is a neurodiverse-inclusive private school that integrates Direct Instruction, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and Precision Teaching to accelerate learner outcomes. The Curriculum and Academic Rigor Lead ensures that ExcelPrep’s academic programming meets the highest standards of instructional excellence, alignment with student learning goals, and fidelity to evidence-based practice.
This leader will coach, develop, and evaluate teachers and interventionists while guiding the academic and instructional design across subjects and grade levels.
Key Responsibilities
Curriculum Leadership
- Lead the design, implementation, and monitoring of ExcelPrep’s academic and instructional frameworks.
- Ensure all curriculum aligns with ExcelPrep’s mission of equity, precision, and neurodiverse inclusion.
- Evaluate and adapt curriculum sequences using Direct Instruction (DI) and complementary instructional models.
- Develop pacing guides, progress monitoring systems, and mastery-based data reviews.
Instructional Coaching and Professional Development
- Provide weekly observation, feedback, and coaching cycles for teachers and interventionists.
- Model high-fidelity instructional delivery using DI, fluency-based instruction, and explicit teaching principles.
- Create and facilitate ongoing professional development in data-based decision making, instructional design, and learner engagement.
- Support new staff onboarding and DI skill acquisition through training and guided practice.
Academic Rigor and Data Accountability
- Lead data review meetings with staff to analyze student performance trends and identify acceleration opportunities.
- Establish measurable academic targets and monitor fidelity of implementation across classrooms.
- Collaborate with BCBAs and clinical teams to ensure academic programming integrates behavioral and communication goals.
- Develop performance rubrics and academic rigor standards that align with ExcelPrep’s outcome metrics.
Leadership & Collaboration
- Serve on the School Leadership Team and advise on instructional priorities, curriculum purchases, and assessment tools.
- Partner with the Clinical Director and Head of School to maintain consistency between academic and therapeutic models.
- Foster a culture of professional growth, collaboration, and evidence-based excellence.
Qualifications
- Required:
- Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
- Minimum 3 years teaching or instructional leadership experience
- Demonstrated proficiency in Direct Instruction (DI) methodologies
- Deep understanding of evidence-based interventions, progress monitoring, and individualized instruction
- Preferred:
- Experience working with neurodiverse learners (autism, ADHD, learning disabilities)
- Familiarity with ABA and Precision Teaching principles
- Experience training or supervising educators and intervention staff
- Master’s degree in Education, Curriculum & Instruction, or related field
Core Competencies
- Instructional design expertise
- Strong data analysis and coaching skills
- Leadership presence and cultural competence
- Commitment to inclusion, equity, and high expectations
- Excellent communication and organizational abilities
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
- Professional development and continuing education support
- Opportunity to shape a growing, innovative educational model in Chicago
Skills Required
- Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
- Minimum 3 years of teaching or instructional leadership experience
- Demonstrated proficiency in Direct Instruction methodologies
- Deep understanding of evidence-based interventions, progress monitoring, and individualized instruction
- Experience working with neurodiverse learners, including autism, ADHD, or learning disabilities
- Familiarity with Applied Behavior Analysis and Precision Teaching principles
- Experience training or supervising educators and intervention staff
- Master's degree in Education, Curriculum and Instruction, or a related field
What We Do
Excel Driver Services is a CDL training company based in Henderson, Colorado, offering FMCSA-certified Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT), CDL permit and testing, and behind-the-wheel training for Class A, Class B, passenger and school bus vehicles. Its mission is building safer drivers. The company also runs Sim-Tech, which manufactures driving simulators, and Drive Prodigy, its learning management system, and has trained over 130,000 drivers.
