Special Education Paraprofessional

Under the general supervision of the Classroom Teacher, the Special Education Paraprofessional will assist with classroom lessons, activities, organization, and student supervision. We are seeking a compassionate, patient, and dependable Teacher’s Assistant to support our Special Education Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms. The assistant will work under the supervision of the lead special education teacher to provide instructional, behavioral, and emotional support to young students with a range of disabilities, ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) under the guidance of the teacher.
• Support students with daily classroom routines and transitions.
• Provide one-on-one or small group instruction and reinforcement.
• Help manage student behavior using positive behavior support strategies.
• Assist with personal care tasks (e.g., toileting, feeding, mobility) as needed.
• Prepare instructional materials and organize classroom resources.
• Support inclusion of students in general education settings when applicable.
• Maintain confidentiality and a professional, respectful attitude toward students, families, and staff.
• Monitor and document student progress and behavior for teacher review.
• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and professional development as required.

Requirements

• High School Diploma; Associate’s degree preferred.
• Successful completion of Work Keys Test.
• Valid Paraprofessional Licensure from the Illinois State Board of Education.
• Previous paraprofessional experience with elementary school-aged children preferred.
• Satisfactory report from a fingerprint-based criminal history records check.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods standing and walking throughout school and classroom.
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer or standing to teach.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• Must be able to traverse classroom and adjust one’s tone and height, by bending or leaning, in order to teach each child.

Terms of Employment

• At-will employment.
• 180-day position.
• Annual evaluation conducted by building Principal and/or Assistant Principal.

Salary and increase set by Superintendent.

Working Conditions

• In-person and on-site in a school/classroom environment.
• Close contact with school-age children.