Special Education Teaching Assistant - Middle School

Special Education Teaching Assistant

Hours/Day: 6.5 (full-time) Work days/year : 178 2026-2027 School Year Hourly rate determined by CEA collective bargaining agreement. Starting Hourly Rate : Grade LTA, $17.23 base hourly rate $19.23 (if assigned to a high needs classroom) $23.23 (if assigned to a high needs classroom and completion of a 40-hour training program for the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) through Relias Academy). Training information can be found at . Medical Insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield HM0 80/20 cost share Dental Insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield 80/20 cost share Vision Insurance: VSP 100% employee cost

Summary of Position

The Special Education Aide assists teachers in meeting the needs of special education students. The primary focus is to assist and enhance the educational process of students with disabilities in both instructional and non-instructional activities.

Job Requirements

Current State of Illinois Paraprofessional (Aide) Approval, Educator License with Stipulations, Professional Educator License, or Substitute License. Have the ability to work effectively with children. Have the ability to function within the framework of the school environment. Effective interpersonal and communication skills. Working knowledge of: Computers and basic programs. Child guidance principles and practices. Behavior management and positive reinforcement. Classroom procedures and appropriate conduct. Basic record keeping methods.

Typical Duties

Assist with providing a variety of activities for a balanced program of instruction, giving students opportunity to observe, question and investigate. Reinforce information and instructions following a lesson. Works with students individually or in small groups in academic studies, basic life skills and other assigned instruction. Implements behavior modification plans and procedures designed for individual students when necessary. Maintain confidentiality regarding students. Maintain positive relationships with all students, school staff and parents. Observes and records student's progress. Assists individual or groups of students during activities including recess, lunch and getting children safely on and off bus. Assist with hygiene and toileting activities which might include transferring and lifting students. Sanitize classroom and equipment using approved materials.

Physical Ability

While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl and run. The employee will experience occasional lifting and or moving up to 100 lbs, such as lifting a child from the floor. The employee must be able to push/pull items up to 80 lbs., such as children in wheelchairs. Work Environment: Hazards- Potential exposure to communicable disease and contact with blood and other body fluids; potential exposure to physical injury from aggressive behavior.