Pre-K Special Education Paraprofessional

Pre‑K Special Education Paraprofessional (2026‑2027)

Joliet Public Schools District 86 – MARYCREST, JOLIET, Illinois

Job : 5820661
Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled
Posted: Jul 07, 2026
Starting Date: To Be Determined

POSITION: Special Education Paraprofessional
POSITION GUIDE: Non‑Certificated Personnel
Full Time – 9 Months
Bargaining Unit Position
Non‑Exempt

REPORTS TO: Principal, Assistant Principal, Academic Advisor, Student Services Coordinator, Special Education Classroom Teacher

RELATES TO: Coordinators, Parents

SALARY AND BENEFITS: As outlined in the collective bargaining agreement between the Board of School Inspectors of School District 86 and the Union.

Assist in delivering instruction and support to individual students or small groups under the guidance of the principal, student services coordinator, and classroom teacher. Responsibilities may vary between instructionally‑based, physical‑management, and medical‑based roles as student needs arise.

• Valid State of Illinois Professional Educator License with Self‑Contained General Education Endorsement or Educator License with Stipulations (PARA)
• At least 60 semester hours of college credit (degree or equivalent)
• Demonstrated concern for the child’s well‑being
• Willingness to accept instruction and support from certified staff

• Prepare for classroom and other assigned activities under teacher or principal direction.
• Assist the classroom teacher in instruction and supervision during classroom activities.
• Work with individual students or small groups to reinforce new skills introduced by the teacher.
• Aide in implementing strategies for skill reinforcement based on data.
• Maintain anecdotal notes, written observations, and other approved documentation.
• Support critical daily activities and maintain rapport with students.
• Communicate effectively (oral and written) using tact, courtesy, and good judgment.
• Apply independent judgment, decision‑making, and problem‑solving within established policies.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Follow oral and written instructions from supervising staff.
• Carry out general clerical duties such as preparing instructional materials and scoring student work.
• Operate office equipment, including copy machines, computers, and printers.
• Possess strong composition, punctuation, and spelling skills.
• Attend building meetings and in‑service training sessions.
• Engage in ongoing professional development and lifelong learning.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal, Assistant Superintendent, or other designees.

• Understand developmental characteristics of the age group and exceptional students.
• Familiarize with and execute teacher‑planned teaching strategies.
• Provide appropriate reinforcers and monitor student progress.
• Offer clear feedback and facilitate classroom interaction.
• Assist students individually or in small groups using diverse instructional strategies.
• Support classroom engagement through active participation and question‑asking.
• Record data and help assess student progress.

• Assist with toileting, including diapering or other toileting processes.
• Assist with feeding, including g‑tube feeding.
• Assist with catheterization, lifting, positioning, and managing medical equipment such as braces.

• Establish a positive working relationship with the student.
• Monitor on‑task and appropriate physical behavior.
• Chart behavior data and implement Behavior Management Plans.
• Keep teacher informed of behavior developments.

• Assist in modifying instruction per IEPs.
• Work with small groups and individuals to support instructional goals.
• Prepare instructional materials and administer assessments.
• Implement student Behavior Management Plans.
• Support special education students within general curriculum where no IEP goal applies.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Clear, concise oral and written communication across varied tools and formats.
• Compose correspondence, reports, and…