2026-2027 PT 1st Grade Instructional Aide: Cathedral of St. Raymond, Joliet

1st Grade Instructional Aide

St. Raymond School in Joliet, IL is seeking a part-time instructional aide for first grade to begin in August of 2026. Ideal candidates should have a joyful, positive presence, strong collaboration and genuine love for working with children.

Position

Purpose:

The First Grade Instructional Aide supports the classroom teacher in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Working collaboratively with the teacher, the instructional aide provides individualized and small-group support, reinforces classroom instruction and routines, and helps foster a positive classroom culture rooted in respect, responsibility, and kindness. The instructional aide serves as a caring role model who encourages students to develop confidence, independence, and a love of learning while supporting the mission and values of the school.

About St. Ray's:
With over 350 students, the Cathedral of St. Raymond School has proudly served the families in the Joliet area for over 100 years. It is our mission to help each child reach their greatest academic, social and spiritual potential. Student success is a reflection of a school culture that is Gospel-driven and joy-filled.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The instructional aide will:

• Observe strictly the Code of Professional Ethics
• Assist the classroom teacher in implementing daily instructional activities and lesson plans.
• Work with individual students and small groups to reinforce academic concepts in reading, writing, mathematics, and other subject areas.
• Support differentiated instruction by providing additional assistance to students with varying learning needs.
• Help maintain a positive, safe, and engaging classroom environment that promotes student success.
• Supervise students during classroom activities, transitions, lunch, recess, field trips, and other assigned duties.
• Assist students in developing independence, organization, self-regulation, and positive social skills.
• Prepare, organize, and maintain instructional materials, classroom centers, and learning resources.
• Assist with classroom setup, displays, bulletin boards, and organization of supplies.
• Observe student progress and communicate relevant information to the classroom teacher.
• Reinforce classroom expectations, routines, and behavior management strategies established by the teacher.
• Provide encouragement and positive reinforcement to promote student confidence and perseverance.
• Assist students with technology and educational software as directed by the teacher.
• Help administer classroom assessments and record student data under the teacher's direction.
• Support students with personal needs, when appropriate, while promoting dignity and independence.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student records, academic performance, and personal information.
• Collaborate professionally with teachers, school staff, specialists, and administrators to support student learning.
• Communicate respectfully and positively with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, and school events as assigned.
• Model professionalism, integrity, and Christian values in all interactions.
• Attend all specials and stay actively involved in the classroom management for special teachers
• Aid substitute teachers as necessary
• Follow all St. Ray's rules and regulations concerning staff conduct, appropriate dress, etc. as set forth in the Teacher Handbook and by the principal
• Perform other duties as assigned by the classroom teacher or school administration to support the educational mission of the school.

Physical Requirements:

Frequently lift, carry, and move children and classroom materials weighing up to 40 pounds. Bend, kneel, squat, sit on the floor, and stand for extended periods throughout the day. Move actively throughout the classroom, playground, and school building while supervising children. Respond quickly to children's physical and safety needs.

Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or coursework in Early Childhood Education preferred. Experience working with preschool-aged children preferred. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a teaching team. Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Commitment to supporting the mission, philosophy, and values of St. Raymond School. Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain) and successful completion of required background checks and diocesan safe environment training.

Hourly Range $15-$20 Reflective of years of experience, education and professional licensure.

To Apply for this Position:
Complete an online Diocese of Joliet Catholic Schools Office Frontline Applicant Tracking application. Additionally, the following documentation is required to be uploaded/submitted with your online application to be considered further:
Current Resume Official Transcripts Educator…