About this role
Job Title: Head of School – Early Learning (PreK–2nd) Department
Company: ExcelPrep School Location: Champaign, IL Type: Full-Time
About ExcelPrep School
ExcelPrep is a mission-driven private program focused on serving neurodiverse children through structured, research-based instruction. Our mission is to prioritize the academic and social success of neurodiverse learners. We deliver high-quality academic and therapeutic programming that fosters meaningful learning outcomes.
Our Programs:
• PreK–8 Academic Program: Emphasizes Direct Instruction and Precision Teaching; focuses on reading, writing, and mathematics; tailored for neurodiverse profiles.
• Clinical ABA Program (Ages 3–13): Integrates Applied Behavior Analysis with teaching strategies; individualized, data-driven instruction for foundational skills.
Core Values:
• Commitment to Direct Instruction and instructional design
• Precision Teaching and data-based decision making
• Instruction grounded in behavioral science research
• Prioritized Occupational Therapy alongside ABA for sensory-motor development
Position Overview
ExcelPrep School seeks a visionary Head of School to lead our Early Learning (PreK–2nd) Department. You will oversee program operations, curriculum implementation, and team development to ensure our youngest neurodiverse learners receive exceptional, research-based instruction.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead educators, clinicians, and support staff.
• Ensure alignment with ExcelPrep’s mission and core values.
• Oversee implementation of Direct Instruction, Precision Teaching, and ABA strategies.
• Collaborate with families on individualized learning and therapeutic goals.
• Monitor outcomes through data-driven assessment and continuous improvement.
• Maintain compliance with Illinois state and federal educational standards.
Required Qualifications
Candidates must hold all of the following current, valid Illinois licenses and credentials:
• Professional Educator License (PEL) with ONE of the following endorsements:
• Early Childhood Education (Endorsement Code 206): Birth to Grade 2.
• LBS1 (Learning Behaviors Specialist I): With Early Childhood Special Education Approval (Endorsement Code 230): Birth to Grade 2.
• Administrative Endorsement (Must hold one of the following):
• General Administrative.
• Principal.
• Director of Special Education.
• Principal as an Instructional Leader (Codes 195 & 196).
• Special Education Coursework:
• 30 semester hours in special education/administration, including:
• Special education law.
• Special education finance.
• Supervision of programs for children with disabilities.
• Cross-categorical special education methods.
• Experience:
• Minimum 4 years of teaching or school support personnel experience (IL Department of Corrections experience may count).
• Experience working with neurodiverse students, learning disabilities, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
• Commitment to:
• Direct Instruction and Precision Teaching.
• Data-based decision making.
• Occupational Therapy integration alongside ABA.
Why Join ExcelPrep?
• Lead a purpose-driven organization serving neurodiverse children.
• Work with a collaborative team dedicated to excellence in education and therapy.
• Shape early learning outcomes in a supportive, evidence-based environment.
• Be part of a school valuing innovation, inclusion, and research-based practice.
Application Details
Location: Champaign, IL Employment Type: Full-Time Application Deadline: Open until filled
To Apply: Submit your resume, cover letter, and copies of your current PEL (with Early Childhood/LBS1 endorsement) AND Administrative Endorsement to: [email protected]
ExcelPrep School is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.