About Us
At Thornton Fractional Township High School District 215, we are dedicated to providing a world-class education to our students. Our district is committed to fostering a culture of excellence, equity, and inclusivity, where every student has the opportunity to succeed. We are seeking an experienced Special Education Paraprofessional to join our team on a temporary basis, providing support to our students and staff during a leave replacement period.
Job Summary
We are looking for a highly motivated and dedicated Special Education Paraprofessional to work with our students in a remote setting. As a member of our team, you will provide instructional support, assist with classroom management, and help establish a positive learning environment. If you are passionate about education and committed to making a difference in the lives of our students, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain a professional relationship with staff and students, promoting a positive and inclusive learning environment.
- Supervise students in non-instructional activities, ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Reinforce learning in small groups, providing individualized support to students as needed.
- Conduct teacher-prepared lessons with small groups, adapting instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.
- Assist in educational demonstrations, helping students understand complex concepts and ideas.
- Establish positive working relationships with students, promoting social skills and emotional intelligence.
- Carry out instructional activities as planned by the teacher, ensuring consistency and continuity in instruction.
- Read materials and tests to students, as needed, to support their learning and independence.
- Assist students with make-up work, helping them catch up on missed assignments and stay on track with their coursework.
- Implement behavior management plans, observing, recording, and charting strategies to support student success.
- Assist the teacher with crises and behavior management, providing a calm and supportive presence in the classroom.
- Provide feedback and reinforcement to students on their performance, consistent with the teacher's behavior management plan.
- Assist the teacher in classroom behavior management, helping to create a positive and respectful learning environment.
- Carry out the teacher's plans for the student, ensuring that their individual needs are met and supported.
- Under the direction of the supervisory teacher, become aware of each student's unique learning style, adapting instruction to meet their needs.
- Under the direction of the supervisory teacher, become familiar with each student's physical and psychological report and social history, providing a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
- Manage class material inventory, setting up and storing instructional materials as needed.
- Create and prepare instructional materials, adapting resources to meet the needs of diverse learners.
- Maintain audio-visual equipment, ensuring that technology is functioning properly and supporting instruction.
Requirements
To be successful in this role, you will need to possess the following qualifications and skills:
Essential Qualifications
- Hold a current Illinois Educator License with Stipulations (ELS) endorsed as a Paraprofessional Educator.
- Two years (or 60 semester hours) of post-secondary study preferred.
- Background in Special Education preferred.
- Bilingual (English-Spanish) preferred.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with students with diverse needs and abilities.
- Knowledge of special education laws and regulations.
- Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and priorities.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Skills and Competencies
To succeed in this role, you will need to possess the following skills and competencies:
- Strong instructional support skills, including the ability to adapt instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work with students, staff, and parents.
- Ability to manage classroom behavior and implement behavior management plans.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, including the ability to collaborate with teachers and other staff members.
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, including the ability to analyze situations and develop effective solutions.
Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits
We are committed to providing our staff with opportunities for growth and development, including:
- Professional development opportunities, including training and workshops on special education topics.
- Opportunities for advancement, including the possibility of permanent employment with our district.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment, including regular feedback and coaching from supervisors and colleagues.
- A comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as retirement savings options.
Work Environment and Company Culture
We are proud of our district's commitment to creating a positive and inclusive work environment, where every staff member feels valued and supported. Our district is dedicated to:
- Fostering a culture of excellence, equity, and inclusivity, where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
- Providing a safe and supportive learning environment, where students feel comfortable and confident.
- Encouraging collaboration and teamwork among staff members, including regular communication and feedback.
- Supporting the professional growth and development of our staff, including opportunities for training and advancement.
Compensation, Perks, and Benefits
We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- A starting wage of $17.50-$19.25/hour, based on education and verified experience.
- A 55-minute paid lunch break (45 minutes on Wednesdays).
- Sick and personal days.
- Generous fringe benefits, as provided by the district.
How to Apply
To apply for this exciting opportunity, please submit your application online, using the 'Start an application for employment' link available on our website. We encourage you to apply, even if you feel you're not a perfect match. We are looking for great people to join our friendly team.
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