Special Education Paraprofessional

Turning Pointe Autism Foundation (TPAF) seeks individuals interested in helping children and teens with autism learn and grow. Our team's Paraprofessionals play a vital role in supporting students. Paraprofessionals at Turning Pointe are referred to as Intense Behavior Interventionists or IBIs and work on an academic calendar. IBIs respectfully teach and assist students in completion of academic activities, community skills, life skills, safety skills, and behavior intervention plans. Turning Pointe offers a comprehensive training program to prepare staff with best practice teaching methods to meet the learning needs of our students.

The Intense Behavior Interventionist will work with a team of clinicians and teachers to implement programming individualized for each student. IBIs ensure students are actively engaged in programming throughout the day and communicate effectively with students to build rapport and increase social interactions. IBIs implement all self-calming de-escalation cycles, identifying each escalation cycle, keeping data, and intervening at each stage representing the plan. Additionally, IBIs monitor assigned students' progress, including data tracking related to goals outlined within Individual Education Programs.

By joining students for all activities, including community outings, IBIs are vital and valued student team members. IBI staff will implement toileting programs as needed. IBIs receive ongoing training and support through staff meetings, training, and workshops to continue understanding all aspects of autism spectrum disorder and practical approaches. IBIs must maintain confidentiality of student IEPs, parent information, and personal details. IBIs witness the transformation of students into greater independence and improved communication. The team is eager to welcome you into our supportive environment, where you can witness the growth of children and teens daily.

Essential Functions:

• Demonstrate professionalism while representing the Turning Pointe mission, philosophy and programmatic approach while in the community, with other professionals or at work-related events
• Respectfully implement all programming provided by the educational team
• Implement student personal and intimate care plan as needed
• Implement all Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) provided by the educational team
• Maintain up-to-date crisis intervention certification
• Participate in a collaborative team setting by giving feedback and submitting ideas to the TPAF team as a member of the TPAF community
• Accept and receive feedback provided by Administrators, Supervisors, Related Service Providers, Teachers and Lead IBI’s
• Maintain confidentiality of all student records, information and personal details
• Participate in daily meetings
• Participate in trainings, staff meetings, in-service meetings and events as assigned
• Participate in swim program, recreational outings and community outings
• Perform other work and responsibilities as assigned

Experience & Skills:

• A proven track record as a team player
• Ability to remain calm and organized in fast-paced work environment
• Ability to communicate pertinent information to the team
• Experience working in an educational, therapeutic, or similar environment with students impacted by autism or other developmental disabilities preferred
• Ability to implement behavior support plans
• Knowledge of the basic principles of Applied Behavior Analysis

Physical Demands:

• May include lifting and supporting up to 50 pounds
• Implement crisis protocols, which may include physical crisis management procedures
• May be required to bend, stoop, and kneel
• Ability to work at a desk, conference table or in meetings of various configurations
• Ability to stand and circulate for extended periods of time
• Moderate to high stress levels
• Daily contact with students, teachers, and school staff
• Regular contact with parents, community members and outside agency personnel
• May be exposed to contact with individuals displaying physically aggressive, self-abusive, or socially undesirable behavior

Job Requirements:

• ISBE Paraprofessional or Substitute Educator License required
• Experience working with middle school/high school, and/or transition age students impacted by autism.

Compensation: $35,600-$45,000 Annually

Benefits:

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Pet insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Short-Term Disability
• Simple IRA with employer match
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Referral Bonus Program
• Longevity Bonus

Turning Pointe is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you require additional support or assistance, please contact sodoherty@turningpointeaf.org.

*The salary range listed for this position is a guideline and may vary. The salary is based on the role's requirements, the candidate's experience, and other relevant factors. The final compensation offer may vary depending on qualifications, experience, and geographic location. Salary details will be discussed during the interview process.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35,600.00 - $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Bereavement leave
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

License/Certification:

• Paraprofessional Certification or Sub License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $35,600 - $45,000