Paraprofessional

Description:

Position Summary This position serves as dedicated, individualized support to a student, ensuring safe and effective participation in all aspects of the school day. Paraprofessional supports transitions, mobility, and personal care needs while promoting independence and inclusion across academic and non-academic settings. In addition to direct student support, the role may include assisting with broader classroom and school responsibilities as needed. This position requires strong interpersonal and communication skills, attentiveness to student safety, and the ability to respond flexibly to changing needs throughout the day. Maintaining a calm demeanor, reliability, and a high level of professionalism is essential in this role.

Responsibilities Transitional & Mobility Support:

Assist the student with transitions between classrooms and school spaces to ensure safety and timely arrival. Provide physical support as needed, including navigating stairs, elevator usage, opening heavy doors, and assisting with the use or transport of mobility devices (e.g., walker, forearm crutches).

Personal Care Support:

Assist the student with managing personal items such as backpack, lunch, and water bottle. Support the student with changing shoes or clothing as needed. Provide additional assistance based on the student's level of independence and evolving needs.

Supervision:

Actively monitor and support the student during non-academic times, including lunch, recess, and transitions throughout the school day.

Additional Responsibilities:

When the assigned student does not require direct support, assist with other classroom or school-related duties as directed by the classroom teacher or administration. Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall needs of the classroom and school community.

Common Work Settings:

Classrooms and hallways Playground and lunchroom Other indoor and outdoor school spaces

Requirements:

Qualifications Illinois Paraprofessional Educator license is required. If you hold an Illinois Substitute License and a bachelor's degree, you are qualified. Willingness to participate in training and professional development to support the student's specific needs. Patience, empathy, and a strong commitment to inclusion. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work collaboratively with teachers, specialists, and staff. Reliability and attentiveness to student safety. Ability to stand and move for extended periods throughout the day. Ability to lift materials and occasionally assist or support a child with mobility needs. Firm belief in personal accountability, producing measurable outcomes, and sustaining high expectations Salary/Benefits Benefits eligible position offered at $20/hour Benefits offered: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Retirement match, Short Term/Long Term Disability, Employee sponsored Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Program. Professional development opportunities. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and three professional references to humanresources@averycoonley.org.