Teaching Assistant - Substitute

About the role

Nexus-Onarga Family Healing is hiring Substitute Teaching Assistants for Grand Prairie School at their Onarga, IL location. The position is available for those who want flexible scheduling and ongoing training on mental health and trauma-informed care.

Responsibilities

• Provide educational assistance to clients within a classroom setting.
• Communicate with students professionally and compassionately.
• Maintain a safe, supportive learning environment.
• Deliver lessons and assist with assignments in the teacher’s absence.
• Prepare classroom materials and handouts.
• Supervise study halls and classrooms as needed.
• Collaborate with teachers to support classroom goals.
• Request classroom supplies as needed.
• Support student treatment plans and IEPs.
• Monitor student behavior, redirect as needed, and assist with restraints when necessary.
• Support student transport to and from residential units.
• Promote respect for diversity across all identities and backgrounds.
• Build knowledge in child and adolescent development to support positive youth growth.
• Ensure safety compliance across classrooms, school grounds, residential areas, and off-campus activities.
• Administer First Aid/CPR and follow emergency protocols.
• Maintain professional boundaries with student residents.
• Uphold privacy and confidentiality per Nexus policies.
• Attend staff meetings and training sessions as required by Nexus.
• Understand and support the Nexus philosophy and treatment modalities.

Requirements

• Minimum 21 years of age
• High School diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license
• ISBE (Illinois State Board of Education) Paraprofessional Educator Endorsement (ELS PARA)
• Pass a DCFS criminal background check
• Open to meeting the cultural needs of individuals or communities

Qualifications

• Previous classroom support experience preferred

Skills

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted and up to 100+ pounds with assistance
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time (2-4 hours)
• Ability to twist, bend, and stretch in a manner conducive to the execution of daily activities within a school

Benefits

• Flexible Scheduling - on call or prescheduled days available year-round!
• Endless training on mental health & trauma informed care
• Ongoing support of a team of trained & experienced professionals
• Internal advancement opportunities available with further education
• Employee Referral Bonus program

Pay

Salary starts at $17-$18 per hour based on prior years of experience as a Paraprofessional.

Schedule

Schedule: As needed Basis; Monday-Friday 7a-3:30p with year-round school schedule

Location

Location: 110 N Locust St, Onarga, IL