Duties

Position Summary

The SPED Cross-Categorical Paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, developmental, and functional support to students in Kindergarten and 1st Grade with a variety of disabilities and individual needs. Working under the direction of certified special education staff and classroom teachers, this position assists students in accessing the curriculum, developing independence, participating successfully in the school environment, and making progress toward their individualized goals. The paraprofessional works collaboratively with teachers, related service providers, and other school staff to maintain a safe, supportive, inclusive, and positive learning environment.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Embrace and help grow the mission of Pleasant Valley which is to “engage, inspire, and empower each student towards academic excellence and citizenship”. 
• Provide instructional support to students individually and in small groups under the direction of certified staff.
• Assist students in accessing and participating in the general education curriculum and specialized instruction.
• Reinforce instruction in early literacy, mathematics, communication, social-emotional learning, and other academic areas as directed.
• Implement accommodations, modifications, and individualized supports as directed by certified staff.
• Assist students in developing independence, self-help skills, organization, communication, and positive social skills.
• Support students in developing and maintaining appropriate classroom behaviors and self-regulation skills.
• Utilize positive behavior supports and developmentally appropriate strategies to promote student engagement and success.
• Assist students with transitions between classrooms, activities, and other school settings.
• Provide physical, behavioral, academic, communication, and functional assistance as outlined in student plans and directed by certified staff.
• Assist with implementation of student IEP goals and related instructional and behavioral supports under the direction of certified staff.
• Collect and communicate observations and student performance information to the classroom teacher or special education teacher.
• Assist with preparing instructional materials, classroom activities, and student learning resources.
• Work collaboratively with classroom teachers, special education staff, related service providers, and administration to support student needs.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student records and information in accordance with FERPA.
• Supervise students in classrooms, hallways, cafeteria, playground, arrival, dismissal, and other school settings as assigned.
• Assist with maintaining a safe, clean, organized, and supportive classroom environment.
• Participate in professional development and district training as applicable.
• Other duties as assigned by administration.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and actively supervise students for extended periods.
• Ability to assist students with educational, developmental, behavioral, communication, and functional needs.
• Ability to lift, carry, or assist students and instructional materials as required by student needs and district procedures.
• Ability to respond quickly and appropriately to behavioral, medical, or safety situations.
• Ability to complete the physical requirements of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Qualifications

Qualifications & Skills

• Must hold a valid Illinois Paraprofessional (PARA) or Short-Term PARA license.
• Additional information and license application process from Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) can be found HERE.
• Experience working with children and/or in an educational setting is preferred.
• Experience working with students with disabilities is preferred.
• Must have a positive attitude and positive approach to meeting the needs of all students.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and staff.
• Ability to follow and implement instructional and behavioral plans developed by certified staff.
• Demonstrate patience, flexibility, and sound judgment when working with students with diverse needs.
• Ability to work effectively with students of varying academic, developmental, behavioral, communication, and social-emotional needs.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Must be punctual and reliable.
• Demonstrates consistent attendance, reliability, and professionalism.
• Must be able to pass a background check.

Salary/Benefits

• Compensation is based on district salary guidelines and qualifications.
• Schedule and work hours are determined by district needs and the assigned school schedule.
• Benefits are provided in accordance with district policy and applicable employment agreements.

How to Apply

Apply online at www.pv62.com/employment

Position Website

www.pv62.com/employment

ILearn Link

ILearn

Report Card Link

District Report Card