Special Education Paraprofessional

The Special Education Paraprofessional plays a critical role in supporting students with diverse learning needs in both general education and special education settings under the direction of certified staff. Special Education Paraprofessionals must be comfortable working with students who may have emotional and behavioral challenges and must be able to to implement de-escalation strategies as part of a team approach.

Role shall be responsible for the following duties which include, but are not limited to:

• Works collaboratively with classroom teacher(s) to understand teacher planned activities/lessons.
• When preparing to teach a lesson, consider the student’s interests, special needs, and current skill levels.
• Prepares materials for use during small group instruction (i.e. RtI, small groups, guided reading etc.).
• Utilize confidential and personal information concerning students and staff for professional purposes only, and in accordance with District regulations.

• Interacts positively and appropriately with students and encourages positive student to student relationships.
• Encourages high expectations for learning and achieving.
• Upholds and reinforces school and classroom procedures and routines (i.e. management of instructional groups, transitions, recess/lunch supervision, etc.).
• Works with students in a fair and consistent manner.
• Sets clear expectations for student behavior and responds appropriately to student misbehavior.
• Assist in the development of communication skills which may include sign language, language boards, assistive technology and specialized instruction.

• Supervises students during arrival, lunch, recess, and dismissal.
• Communicates instructional and or behavioral concerns and progress to classroom teachers.
• Observe and provide for the health and safety of all students including the provision of special health and hygiene products.
• Assisting students with health-related service activities as required according to individual student needs.
• Documents and maintains data regarding student progress.
• Participates in school/district activities.
• Maintains a positive relationship with all colleagues.
• Seeks additional training or support when needed.
• Accepts constructive support.
• Adheres to the school and district's policies, practices, and procedures.
• Punctual to school, meetings, and scheduled appointments.
• Organizes time well and functions in an efficient manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ability to lift, transfer, and assist students with mobility needs (up to 50-80 lbs. with assistance)
• Frequent physical activity, including walking, kneeling, bending, assisting with transitions, and de-escalation.
• Ability to work in a variety of settings, including classrooms, playgrounds and hallways.
• Willingness to spend a portion of each day outdoors on the playground or supporting bus duty, in various weather conditions.

Reasonable accommodations may be made in order to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

• Required Testing
  :
  Pre-employment TB Test and Statement of Good Health as required by Illinois School Code
• Clearances: Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance as required by Illinois School Code and BOE policy
• FLSA Status: Exempt

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with State and local laws and board policies.