Special Education Paraprofessional (Cross-Categorical)

About This Role

Provide essential instructional and support services to students with special needs in various classroom settings, under the guidance of a teacher or professional staff. This role focuses on supporting academic, behavioral, language, and physical needs of students.

Responsibilities

• Communicate with teachers, staff, support services, and students
• Collaborate and foster teamwork within the school community
• Maintain anecdotal notes and data recording as needed for student progress
• Contribute strategies for developing acceptance of student(s) by the school community and facilitate social interaction
• Assist staff with other activities when available
• Assist and monitor student(s) to and from the bus, during recess, in the lunchroom, and hallways
• Assist with feeding skills, toileting, and other physical needs with appropriate supervision and training
• Aid in the care, correct use, and maintenance of adaptive equipment
• Assist student(s) during emergency situations, drills, and field trips
• Exhibit knowledge of student's IEP goals, medical needs, and limitations
• Assist student with instructional activities as outlined by staff, utilizing strategies to modify materials
• Implement behavioral intervention plans and procedures as needed
• Attend ongoing training as required for professional development
• Maintain ethical behavior and confidentiality regarding student information
• Refer any questions or concerns from parents to appropriate staff members
• Assist student(s) to complete lesson activities, assignments, and assessments
• Assist in implementation of test accommodations and modifications during test administration
• Communicate (verbal or written) with parents as directed by teacher, administration, and related service staff

Requirements

• Valid ISBE Paraprofessional License or Short Term Approval
• Basic knowledge and willingness to learn appropriate use of technology
• Desire to work with students with special needs
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of students and their records
• Understanding of basic elements of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
• Ability to work with multiple needs across multiple grades

Nice to Have

• CPI Certification (provided by District 47)