Paraprofessional - Special Education

SPED Paraprofessional

The primary role of a paraprofessional is to provide instructional support and non-instructional services to students who may require individualized support to reach their full potential.

Qualifications:

Licensure Required: Illinois Paraprofessional Educator License (PreK Age 21) or Short Term Paraprofessional Approval

Preferred: Spanish for a Bilingual Paraprofessional

Education: Required: High school diploma or equivalent. Preferred: Must have completed 60 hours of college credit at a regionally accredited institution of higher education, or obtained an associate's degree (or higher) at a regionally accredited institution of higher education, or pass the proficiency tests through ISBE to be eligible for the Illinois Paraprofessional Educator License.

Experience: Preferred: Two (2) or more years of successful experience as a paraprofessional.

Essential Performance Responsibilities:

• Work with individual students and small groups assigned on either lessons or projects.
• Assist with discipline and support teachers in implementing classroom management.
• Observe students, record data, share insights regarding changes in students' behavior, etc.
• Follow teacher lead and directions.
• Share ideas regarding improving the functioning of the classroom.
• Supervise students during lunch, rest, recess, toileting (if needed), transitioning, etc. as assigned.
• Assist in record keeping, preparing work materials, and guiding students in learning tasks as directed.
• Inform the teacher/administrator of any accident or issues of concern with students.
• Reinforce appropriate student behavior and facilitate appropriate social interactions among students.
• Follow the schedule provided by the teacher.
• Assist with loading and/or unloading buses.
• Assist with students that are integrated into regular education classrooms.
• Attend all professional development opportunities required for this position.
• Assist with the supervision of students during emergency drills, assemblies, play periods, and field trips.
• Participate in in-service programs as assigned and perform related work as required.
• Other duties as assigned by the Principal/Director.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Technical: Proficient computer skills including Google Apps

Interpersonal: Handle confidential information professionally. Ability to use discretion and exercise sound judgment. Effective oral and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills. Good organizational and time management skills. Evidence of dependability, integrity, and a strong work ethic. Ability to take the initiative, work independently, meet deadlines, follow complex directions, and adapt to changing demands, activities, and workloads.

District Core Competencies: Achievement focus Cultural competence Classroom environment leadership Collaborative communicator/team player Reflective learner Innovative

Physical Demands:

Working Conditions: The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, kneeling, and sitting on the floor. This job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment.

Terms of Employment: 192 days and hours vary per building

Salary Range: Per Collective Bargaining Agreement - $20.30, individual medical up to $42.00 per month, free individual dental coverage, 11 sick days and 2 personal days