Paraprofessional - Lincolnwood STEP Program - 2 positions (SY26/27)

About the Role

The Paraprofessional provides support to the instructional program within an assigned classroom, with specific responsibility for assisting in the supervision, care, and instruction of special needs students in a regular or self-contained classroom. This role helps implement instructional plans, monitors student behavior during non-classroom times, provides information to school personnel, and attends IEP meetings. The position reports to the Principal and is part of the STEP program, a self-contained special education program primarily for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The program focuses on developing social skills, academic skills, communication, independence, and learning stamina across all school settings.

Responsibilities

• Adapts classroom activities, assignments, and materials under the direction of the supervising teacher to support classroom objectives.
• Administers tests, homework, and make-up work to support teachers in the classroom.
• Provides immediate first aid and medical assistance as instructed by a healthcare professional (e.g., diapering, tube feeding, medication).
• Assists medically fragile or physically disabled students with personal hygiene.
• Attends meetings and in-service presentations (e.g., first aid, CPR, emergency procedures) to stay informed on job functions.
• Communicates with instructional staff, support personnel, and parents to assist in evaluating progress and implementing IEP objectives.
• Implements behavioral plans designed by the IEP team for students with behavior disorders or special conditions.
• Maintains instructional materials and manual/electronic records to ensure availability and meet requirements.
• Monitors students in various school environments (e.g., restrooms, playgrounds, hallways) to maintain a safe and positive learning environment.
• Provides instruction to students in individual and group activities (e.g., academic subjects, social skills, daily living skills) to reinforce instructional objectives and implement IEP plans.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a job-related area.
• Certificates and Licenses: Must hold one of the following:
  • Professional Educator License
  • Substitute Teaching License
  • Educator License with Stipulations (TBE)
  • Educator License with Stipulations (PARA)
• Experience: Preferred job-related experience or targeted education in a related area.

Pay

Minimum starting salary for the 2026-2027 school year (Elementary School, 6.0 hours per day): Step 1/$29,310.90

Benefits

• Medical and Dental Insurance
• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund pension plan
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability
• Pet insurance
• Flexible benefits plan
• 10 Sick days
• 2 Personal days
• Paid holidays
• Direct deposit
• Employee assistance program

Information on obtaining a paraprofessional license is available on the ISBE website.