Paraprofessional

This job was posted by : For more information, please see: Orchard Academy is seeking an energetic and professional Paraprofessional / Job Coach / Teacher Assistant to support young adults aged 1721 as they transition from high school into independent adulthood. This unique hybrid role combines instructional classroom support with active, community-based mentorship. Rather than operating inside a traditional classroom all day, you will accompany students directly into the community to foster job readiness, independent living, and social-emotional development. You will work collaboratively with our academic team and full-time social worker to help students satisfy their Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals and build lasting self-determination. Pay: $22/hr. Why Join Our Team? - Dynamic Work Environment: Your classroom is the community, where you will guide students through real-world internships, public transit navigation, grocery shopping, and recreational activities. - Measurable Community Impact: You directly empower capable young adults to master executive functioning skills, secure competitive employment, and prepare for independent living. - Excellent Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a reliable, predictable daytime schedule with paid regular school breaks and holidays. Paraprofessional Responsibilities: Instructional & Life Skills Coaching - Provide individualized instructional support to reinforce the academic curriculum, life skills, and transition topics designed by the teacher. - Coach students in practical life skills lessons, including culinary arts, food safety, financial budgeting, and personal resource management. - Guide students in developing executive functioning and social-emotional skills necessary to navigate challenging everyday environments. - Assist students with varying physical or behavioral disabilities according to their individual needs, promoting personal care, self-regulation, and hygiene independence. Job Coaching & Community Mentorship - Serve as a professional role model while mentoring students during non-paid community internships and job readiness training. - Accompany and actively supervise students during community-based outings, service learning projects, and travel training experiences. - Assist students with college preparation activities, campus exploration, and navigating post-secondary aspirations. Compliance, Administrative, & Team Collaboration - Work alongside the full-time social worker and academic staff to implement and reinforce targeted IEP transition goals. - Collect accurate student performance data, maintain instructional charts, and communicate changes in behavior or general health directly to the teacher. - Maintain absolute confidentiality regarding student records and family information in compliance with institutional and legal standards. - Support the teacher by preparing necessary instructional materials, setting up classroom areas, and managing program equipment. - Participate in staff development training programs, collaborative faculty meetings, and special academy events. Qualifications and Requirements: - Education: Associate's degree or higher is preferred; high school diploma or equivalent required. - Certification: Valid Illinois Paraprofessional Certification is preferred or required based on state guidelines. - Experience: Two years of experience working in special education or supporting neurodiverse learning profiles is highly preferred. - Licensure: Must possess a valid Driver's License. - Training: Ability to successfully complete and maintain required certifications in First Aid, CPR, and Crisis Management. - Key Skills: trong collaborative communication skills, an active mindset, and comfort with daily walking and traveling throughout the local community. Paraprofessional Benefits: - Medical, Dental, Vision, & Life insurance - 401(k) - Employee assistance program - Paid time off - Referral program - Tuition reimbursement - Access to finding childcare & applying for financial assistance Visit