Paraprofessional - STEP program (SY26/27) - 6 positions

The job of Paraprofessional is done for the purpose/s of providing support to the instructional program within assigned classroom with specific responsibility for assisting in the supervision, care and instruction of special needs students in the regular classroom or in a self-contained classroom; assisting in implementing plans for instruction; monitoring student behavior during non-classroom time; providing information to appropriate school personnel; and attending IEP meetings. This job reports to the Principal.

STEP is a self-contained, special education program primarily for students who have an Autism Spectrum Disorder. The program is designed to support student success through the development and strengthening of social skills, academic skills, communication skills, independence and learning stamina across all school settings. The program consists of three classes taught and supported by a certified special education teacher and licensed paraprofessionals. In addition, students in the STEP program may receive related services in the areas of Speech & Language, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Social Work, English Language Learner, and Adapted Physical Education, as determined by the IEP team.

The Paraprofessional will be held accountable for the following responsibilities:

• Adapts classroom activities, assignments and/or materials under the direction of the supervising teacher for the purpose of supporting and reinforcing classroom objectives.
• Administers tests, homework, make-up work, etc. for the purpose of supporting teachers in the classroom.
• Administers immediate first aid and medical assistance, as needed, and as instructed by a health care professional (e.g. diapering, tube feeding, colostomy bags, medication, etc.) for the purpose of meeting immediate health care needs.
• Assists medically fragile or physically disabled students for the purpose of maintaining students personal hygiene.
• Attends meetings and in-service presentations (e.g. first aid, CPR, emergency procedures, etc.) for the purpose of acquiring and/or conveying information relative to job functions.
• Communicates with supervising instructional staff, professional support personnel, and parents for the purpose of assisting in evaluating progress and/or implementing IEP objectives.
• Implements under the supervision of assigned teacher, behavioral plans designed by IEP team for students with behavior disorders or other special conditions for the purpose of presenting and/or reinforcing learning concepts.
• Maintains instructional materials and/or manual and electronic files/records for the purpose of ensuring availability of items; providing written reference; and/or meeting mandated requirements.
• Monitors students during assigned periods within a variety of school environments (e.g. rest rooms, playgrounds, hallways, bus loading zones, cafeteria, parking lots, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining a safe and positive learning environment.
• Provides, under the supervision of the assigned teacher, instruction to students in a variety of individual and group activities (e.g. academic subjects, social skills, daily living skills, etc.) for the purpose of reinforcing instructional objectives; implementing IEP plans; and ensuring students success in school.
  
  

Other Functions

• Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.
• Working under direct supervision using standardized procedures; leading, guiding, and/or coordinating others; Utilization of some resources from other work units may be required to perform the job's functions. There is a continual opportunity to have some impact on the organization's services.
  
  

In order to be successful and achieve the above responsibilities, the Paraprofessional must possess the following qualifications:

Education Required

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a job-related area.
  
  

Certificates And Licenses

Must have one of the following:

• Professional Educator License,
• Substitute Teaching License,
• Educator License with Stipulations (TBE) or
• Educator License with Stipulations (PARA).
  
  

Experience Preferred

• Job related experience is desired.
• Targeted, job related education with study in a job-related area.
  
  

Compensation and Benefits:(2026-2027 school year)

Minimum starting salary with a license - Middle School (6.5 hours per day) - Step 1/$29,221.73

Benefits Include

• Medical and Dental Insurance
• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund pension plan
• Life insurance
• Long term disability
• Pet insurance
• Flexible benefits plan
• 10 Sick days
• 2 Personal days
• Paid holidays
• Direct deposit
• Employee assistance program
  
  

Information on obtaining a paraprofessional license can be found on the ISBE website - click here for link.

Application Procedure

Apply online at www.district65.net

Selection Procedure

Selected qualified candidates will be notified to schedule an interview.