Experienced and Compassionate Paraprofessional Wanted for a Rewarding Role in Illinois, Supporting Students with Special Needs in a Dynamic and Inclusive Educational Environment

Introduction to the Role and Our Organization

At Lake County Schools, we are dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive educational environment that fosters the growth and development of all students. As a key member of our team, the Paraprofessional will play a vital role in assisting teachers and supporting students with special needs. We are seeking a compassionate, patient, and experienced individual who is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of our students. If you are a motivated and dedicated professional looking for a rewarding role in education, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

Job Summary and Responsibilities

As a Paraprofessional at Lake County Schools, you will be responsible for providing individualized support to students with special needs, assisting teachers with instructional activities, and promoting a safe and inclusive learning environment. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Assisting teachers with lesson plans, instructional activities, and assessments to support student learning and development
• Providing individualized support to students with special needs, including behavioral, emotional, and academic support
• Promoting a safe and inclusive learning environment, including physical intervention as needed according to protocol
• Communicating effectively with students, teachers, parents, and administration to ensure a collaborative and supportive team approach
• Maintaining accurate records and reports, including student progress and behavior
• Participating in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge in supporting students with special needs

Essential Qualifications and Requirements

To be successful in this role, you will need to possess the following essential qualifications and requirements:

• Current and Valid Paraprofessional License
• 60 college credit hours or Work Keys Test/other ISBE requirement for obtaining Paraprofessional License
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to work as a cooperating member of a team and effectively communicate with students, teachers, parents, and administration
• Positive attitude and dependability, with a strong commitment to supporting students with special needs
• Willingness or experience working with young children with special needs

Preferred Qualifications and Skills

While not essential, the following qualifications and skills are preferred:

• CPI training or willingness to train
• Prior experience working in an educational setting, particularly with students with special needs
• Strong knowledge of instructional strategies and techniques to support student learning and development
• Ability to adapt to changing situations and priorities, with a flexible and patient approach
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to maintain accurate records and reports

What We Offer

In return for your skills, experience, and passion for supporting students with special needs, we offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• $16.00/hour starting salary, with the potential for additional credit for prior work experience
• Full health insurance program with major medical
• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF Pension)
• Paid time off, including vacation and sick leave
• Opportunities for professional development and growth, including training and mentoring

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At Lake County Schools, we are committed to supporting the growth and development of our staff, including Paraprofessionals. As a member of our team, you will have access to a range of career growth opportunities and learning benefits, including:

• Professional development opportunities, including training and mentoring
• Opportunities for advancement, including leadership roles and specialized positions
• Collaborative and supportive team environment, with a strong focus on staff well-being and job satisfaction
• Access to a range of resources and materials, including instructional strategies and techniques to support student learning and development

Work Environment and Company Culture

At Lake County Schools, we pride ourselves on our positive and inclusive work environment, which is characterized by:

• A collaborative and supportive team approach, with a strong focus on staff well-being and job satisfaction
• A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a strong focus on supporting students from diverse backgrounds
• A dynamic and innovative approach to education, with a focus on student-centered learning and development
• A range of employee recognition and reward programs, including employee of the month and year awards

How to Apply

If you are a motivated and dedicated professional looking for a rewarding role in education, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. To apply, please submit the following documents:

• Cover letter, outlining your experience, skills, and qualifications for the role
• Resume, including your education, work experience, and relevant skills and qualifications
• Transcripts, including your academic qualifications and relevant coursework
• Certificates, including your Paraprofessional License and any other relevant certifications
• Four reference letters, including at least two professional references

Applications can be submitted online, through our website or through K12JobSpot. We look forward to receiving your application and discussing this exciting opportunity further.

Conclusion

Thank you for considering this exciting opportunity to join our team as a Paraprofessional. We are confident that your skills, experience, and passion for supporting students with special needs will make you a valuable asset to our team. Don't hesitate to apply – we look forward to receiving your application and discussing this opportunity further. With a competitive salary and benefits package, opportunities for career growth and development, and a positive and inclusive work environment, this is a role that you won't want to miss.