Paraprofessional

Orchard Academy is seeking an energetic and professional Paraprofessional / Job Coach / Teacher Assistant to support young adults aged 17–21 as they transition from high school into independent adulthood. This unique hybrid role combines instructional classroom support with active, community-based mentorship. Rather than operating inside a traditional classroom all day, you will accompany students directly into the community to foster job readiness, independent living, and social-emotional development.

You will work collaboratively with our academic team and full-time social worker to help students satisfy their Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals and build lasting self-determination.
Pay: $22/hr.

Why Join Our Team?

• Dynamic Work Environment:
  Your classroom is the community, where you will guide students through real-world internships, public transit navigation, grocery shopping, and recreational activities.
• Measurable Community Impact:
  You directly empower capable young adults to master executive functioning skills, secure competitive employment, and prepare for independent living.
• Excellent Work-Life Balance:
  Enjoy a reliable, predictable daytime schedule with paid regular school breaks and holidays.

Instructional & Life Skills Coaching

• Provide individualized instructional support to reinforce the academic curriculum, life skills, and transition topics designed by the teacher.
• Coach students in practical life skills lessons, including culinary arts, food safety, financial budgeting, and personal resource management.
• Guide students in developing executive functioning and social-emotional skills necessary to navigate challenging everyday environments.
• Assist students with varying physical or behavioral disabilities according to their individual needs, promoting personal care, self-regulation, and hygiene independence.

Job Coaching & Community Mentorship

• Serve as a professional role model while mentoring students during non-paid community internships and job readiness training.
• Accompany and actively supervise students during community-based outings, service learning projects, and travel training experiences.
• Assist students with college preparation activities, campus exploration, and navigating post-secondary aspirations.
• Work alongside the full-time social worker and academic staff to implement and reinforce targeted IEP transition goals.
• Collect accurate student performance data, maintain instructional charts, and communicate changes in behavior or general health directly to the teacher.
• Maintain absolute confidentiality regarding student records and family information in compliance with institutional and legal standards.
• Support the teacher by preparing necessary instructional materials, setting up classroom areas, and managing program equipment.
• Participate in staff development training programs, collaborative faculty meetings, and special academy events.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Education:
  
  Associate's degree or higher is preferred; high school diploma or equivalent required.
• Certification:
  Valid Illinois Paraprofessional Certification is preferred or required based on state guidelines.
• Experience:
  
  Two years of experience working in special education or supporting neurodiverse learning profiles is highly preferred.
• Licensure:
  Must possess a valid Driver's License.
• Training:
  Ability to successfully complete and maintain required certifications in First Aid, CPR, and Crisis Management.
• Key
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong collaborative communication skills, an active mindset, and comfort with daily walking and traveling throughout the local community.

Paraprofessional Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Employee assistance program
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Access to finding childcare & applying for financial assistance

Visit https://orchard village.org/positions-available/