(3) Paraprofessionals/Primary Learning Center

Position Type:

Support Staff/Teacher Assistant

Date Posted:

7/22/2025

Location:

District Office

Closing Date:

08/01/2025 Job Description

Title: (3) Teacher Assistant (Paraprofessional/ PLC Building)Location: District Office

Employment Type: Full Time Work Days: 10-month position

FSLA: Exempt Reports to: Building Principal

Job Summary:

The Paraprofessional (Teacher Assistant) supports the classroom teacher in providing instructional and non-instructional services to students, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and effective learning environment. This position assists with academic support, behavior management, and daily routines for students in general and special education settings.

Paraprofessionals play a vital role in helping students achieve academic and social success by reinforcing lessons, promoting independence, and providing individualized support aligned with the teacher's instructional goals and the district's mission.

Education, Certification, and Licensure:

Must possess a valid Illinois Paraprofessional License issued by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE)

High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate's Degree or higher preferred

Demonstrated ability to work effectively with children and staff in a school environment

Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills

Basic understanding of child development and learning strategies

Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professionalism at all times Experience:

Prior experience working with elementary-aged students preferred

Experience supporting students with disabilities, English Learners (ELs), or diverse learning needs desirable

Familiarity with Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) or similar frameworks helpful

Knowledge of special education procedures or willingness to learn Essential Duties and Specific Responsibilities:

Assist the teacher in preparing, adapting, and organizing instructional materials and classroom displays

Help maintain a neat, orderly, and positive classroom environment

Support the teacher with inventory, care, and maintenance of classroom materials, books, and supplies

Assist in maintaining administrative records, preparing reports, and monitoring student progress

Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers as needed

Support students with disabilities based on individual needs, including feeding, toileting, mobility, and hygiene assistance

Assist with behavior management, including intervening during crises or restraining disruptive students following CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) guidelines

Learn and adapt to each student's special educational, medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs

Work with individual students or small groups to reinforce skills and conduct instructional exercises assigned by the teacher

Supervise students throughout the day, including classroom, hallway, lunchroom, bus, and playground settings

Report unusual behavior, concerns, or needs of individual students to the classroom teacher

Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student records and information

Participate in staff development, training, faculty meetings, and school events as assigned

Perform other related duties as assigned by the teacher, principal, or designee Skills and Abilities:

Ability to follow directions and implement instructional plans provided by certified staff

Patience, empathy, and flexibility when working with children with a variety of needs

Ability to manage student behavior using positive reinforcement strategies

Effective verbal and written communication skills

Strong organizational and multitasking abilities

Ability to maintain a calm and professional demeanor under pressure

Physical stamina to support students' mobility, transitions, and classroom activities Other Skills and Abilities:

Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative team with teachers, staff, and administrators

Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that all students feel supported and respected

Ability to build trusting, positive relationships with students and families

Professional attitude, punctuality, and reliability in all responsibilities

Ability to remain calm and composed during challenging or high-stress situations

Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills under the supervision of the classroom teacher

Demonstrated initiative in identifying ways to assist teachers and students beyond assigned tasks

Willingness to adapt to changing needs of classrooms, students, and instructional programs

Dedication to lifelong learning and continued professional growth through district-offered trainings

Enthusiasm and a positive attitude toward supporting the educational mission of Prairie-Hills Elementary School District 144 Terms of Employment:

Salary is based on market comparisons as determined by the Superintendent and Board of Education.

Twelve-month work year.

Salary

Beginning salary at $18.29

Physical Requirements:

While performing job, employee is required to (F = Frequently, O = Occasionally, S = Seldom)

Climb Ladders

S

Kneel

S

Lift/Carry > 50 lbs.

S

Push/Pull 50> lbs.

S

Talk

F

Climb Stairs

S

Lift/Carry Under 10 lbs.

O

Push/Pull Under 10 lbs.

S

See

F

Twist

F

Crawl

S

Lift/Carry 10-25 lbs.

S

Push/Pull 10-25 lbs.

S

Squat

S

Walk

F

Hear

F

Lift/Carry 25-50 lbs.

S

Push/Pull 25-50 lbs.

S

Stoop/Bend

O

Work Environment:

The work year for this position is 180 days, following the district's school calendar. Work performed primarily in a classroom and school environment. Must be able to sit, stand, bend, or kneel for extended periods. May require lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling up to 40 pounds. Occasional physical restraint of students in accordance with CPI training. Exposure to varying classroom environments and student needs. Frequent interaction with students, teachers, and staff in a fast-paced setting.

The schedule follows the district academic calendar, with occasional evening or after-school meetings as required. Adheres to district safety policies and confidentiality guidelines. Applicants must apply online at and upload:

Letter of application and resume

High school diploma (GED) or official transcripts (awarded degree)

Valid Illinois license, certifications, and endorsements

Three (3) current letters of recommendation Internal applicants must complete a transfer request at their current site.

Questions should be directed to:

Human Resources Department

Prairie-Hills Elementary School District 144

Administration Center

3015 W. 163rd Street

Markham, IL 60428

Prairie-Hills Elementary School District 144 conducts pre-employment drug tests and background checks.

The information contained in this job description is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Additional duties performed by the individual holding this position may be assigned.