Academic Rigor and Curriculum Lead

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