Paraprofessional, Special Education

Paraprofessional, Special Education

Reports To: Director of Special Education

Position Objective: The Special Education Paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, and classroom support to students with diverse learning needs. Working under the direction of a licensed teacher and special education administrators, the paraprofessional assists students in accessing curriculum, developing academic and social-emotional skills, and participating meaningfully in classroom and school activities.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Illinois Paraprofessional License or Substitute License as required by ISBE.
• Experience working with students with disabilities preferred.
• Knowledge of instructional practices, child development, and behavior support strategies.
• Experience working successfully in a diverse, multicultural environment.

Required Skills:

• Adherence to safety practices in all tasks
• Proficient in operating standard office equipment and using relevant software applications
• Skilled in preparing and maintaining accurate records
• Ability to perform algebra and geometry calculations
• Skilled in reading manuals, writing documents in prescribed formats, and presenting information to others
• Capable of solving practical problems in various situations
• Knowledge of instructional procedures and practices
• Understanding of age-appropriate student activities
• Familiar with safety practices and procedures
• Skilled in conflict resolution
• Knowledgeable about stages of child development and behavior
• Understanding of social-emotional learning principles
• Knowledge of board policies, district, state, and federal regulations/laws
• Basic knowledge of computer skills and educational software programs
• Ability to schedule activities and manage time effectively
• Skilled in gathering and collating data
• Proficient in using job-related equipment
• Flexible in working with others in diverse circumstances
• Ability to work with data using defined and similar processes
• Capable of operating equipment using standardized methods
• Able to work with a wide diversity of individuals and groups
• Strong problem-solving skills to identify issues and create action plans
• Independent interpretation of guidelines for data-related problem-solving
• Moderate problem-solving abilities with equipment
• Ability to adapt to changing work priorities
• Effective communication with diverse groups
• Strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality
• Able to work as part of a team
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions
• Capable of understanding, interpreting, and reteaching instructions using a variety of modalities

Performance Responsibilities:

Student Support and Instruction:

• Support students in developing academic, organizational, behavioral, and social-emotional skills aligned with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Assist with direct instruction and reinforcement of classroom lessons in individual or small-group settings.
• Provide accommodations and instructional support to help students access curriculum across subject areas.
• Adapt classroom materials and activities under the direction of the supervising teacher.
• Support students during assessments, classroom tasks, and skill-building activities.

Classroom and School Environment:

• Monitor student behavior and implement behavior intervention strategies as directed.
• Promote positive interactions and support students in developing appropriate social skills.
• Supervise students during passing periods, lunch, arrival/dismissal, field trips, and other non-classroom activities.
• Assist with maintaining an organized, safe, and inclusive learning environment.
• Operate and maintain instructional equipment and assistive technology.

Personal Care and Safety:

• Assist students with personal care needs (e.g., toileting, feeding, mobility, hygiene) when required by IEPs or student needs.
• Support student safety by following district protocols, emergency procedures, and supervision expectations.
• Monitor student well-being and communicate concerns promptly to appropriate staff.

Terms of Employment: 187 day working calendar

Working Conditions: The position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and the ability to assist with lifting or supporting students as needed. Fine and gross motor skills are necessary to operate instructional materials, assistive technology, and safety equipment.

Salary Range: P1 + SPED stipend, additional hourly bump for BA degree or higher