Student Services Assistant

Location: Barrington

Student Services Assistant

Barrington Community Unit School District 220 – Barrington, IL 60010

Job Description

Reports to:

Principal, TOSA and/or designee. The Student Services Assistant (SSA) supports students with diverse learning needs in general and special education settings. SSAs reinforce instructional strategies, provide classroom support, and maintain student safety.

Qualifications & Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; some college coursework preferred.
• Illinois Paraprofessional License (or proof of application).
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, staff, and the public.
• Proficient in written and spoken English.
• Patience and strong interpersonal skills to work with diverse student needs.
• Ability to assist in implementation of instructional programs, behavior plans, and data collection.
• Basic understanding of assistive technology, instructional accommodations, and modifications.
• Preferred: CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) and CPR training.

Position Overview

The SSA plays a critical role in supporting academic, functional, and behavioral success through reinforcement of instructional strategies, classroom support, and general supervision. SSAs may assist with adaptive skills for students not in BEST/STRIVE programs, support personal hygiene, serve as job coaches at high school/transition programs, and may participate in the crisis response team if desired.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities Instructional & Academic Support

• Provide academic reinforcement to individuals or small groups under direction of classroom teacher or special education staff.
• Assist in implementing accommodations and modifications based on IEP goals.
• Support students in accessing general education curriculum, life skills instruction, and functional learning activities.
• Prepare, reproduce, and organize classroom materials as directed.
• Check student work for completion and accuracy, providing guidance as needed.
• Assist with communication and social interactions to help students engage in learning and peer activities.

Behavioral & Social-Emotional Support

• Reinforce classroom management strategies and individualized behavior plans.
• Provide general behavior support and reinforce self-regulation strategies.
• Model and encourage positive social interactions, problem-solving, and appropriate peer engagement.
• Support students with emotional or behavioral challenges and implement strategies by certified staff.
• Implement de-escalation strategies to maintain a positive learning environment.

Adaptive & Daily Living Support

• Assist with adaptive skills, including mobility support, toileting, feeding, and medical needs, when working with students outside of BEST/STRIVE programs.
• Support bath rooming and personal hygiene skills in early childhood and early elementary settings.
• Encourage and facilitate student independence with self-care routines.
• Delegated care aid training is available if needed.

Workplace Readiness & Job Coaching (High School & Transition Program)

• Assist students in learning and maintaining job-related tasks in school and community placements.
• Model appropriate workplace behavior and social skills.
• Provide direct coaching and guidance during job tasks and interactions with supervisors and co‑workers.
• Support students in problem‑solving workplace challenges and self‑advocating for accommodations.
• Ensure students follow work schedules, safety protocols, and employer expectations.
• Collaborate with transition educators and job site supervisors to ensure successful student experiences.

General Supervision & Student Safety

• Supervise students during lunch, recess, bus duty, before and after school.
• Monitor student behavior during special events, field trips, and assemblies.
• Maintain active supervision to ensure student safety in all assigned settings.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with teachers, related service providers, and other paraprofessionals to ensure a cohesive support system for students.
• Consult and collaborate with special education and general education teachers to provide appropriate student assistance.
• Communicate regularly with staff regarding student needs, progress, and…