1:1 Paraprofessional - Autism Classroom

Grundy County Special Education Co-Op; Morris (IL); On-site; USD 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Grundy County Special Education Cooperative is seeking a dedicated paraprofessional to support children with autism in an educational setting. The role involves collaborating with teachers and specialists to foster social, emotional, and academic development.

The position requires a high school diploma and ISBE paraprofessional licensure, with experience in autism or developmental disabilities preferred. Excellent communication and teamwork are essential to creating a nurturing, inclusive

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; paraprofessional licensure through ISBE.
• Experience working with children with autism or other developmental disabilities is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of early childhood development and the unique challenges faced by children with autism.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with students, families, and colleagues.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for working with young children.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment and adapt to changing needs.
• Proficiency in basic computer skills and willingness to learn new technologies as needed.
• Must pass background checks and any other required screenings.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) for children with autism, ensuring that each child's unique needs are met.
• Support classroom teachers in delivering engaging and developmentally appropriate lessons and activities.
• Provide direct support to students in both one-on-one and small group settings to help them develop social skills, communication, and academic skills.
• Monitor and document student progress, behavior, and interactions, providing feedback to teachers and specialists.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and behavior specialists, to create a cohesive support system for each child.
• Assist with daily routines, including transitions, mealtime, and personal care, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills related to autism and early childhood education.
• Communicate effectively with parents, caregivers, and staff regarding student progress and any concerns that may arise.
• Foster positive relationships with students, promoting a sense of belonging and encouraging positive behavior.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Patience

Empathy

Interpersonal skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Paraprofessional licensure through ISBE

Job description

Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to support children with autism in an educational setting at the Grundy County Special Education Cooperative. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively with teachers and specialists to create a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters the social, emotional, and educational development of children with autism. This full-time position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students and their families.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs) for children with autism, ensuring that each child's unique needs are met.
• Support classroom teachers in delivering engaging and developmentally appropriate lessons and activities.
• Provide direct support to students in both one-on-one and small group settings to help them develop social skills, communication, and academic skills.
• Monitor and document student progress, behavior, and interactions, providing feedback to teachers and specialists.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including speech therapists, occupational therapists, and behavior specialists, to create a cohesive support system for each child.
• Assist with daily routines, including transitions, mealtime, and personal care, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills related to autism and early childhood education.
• Communicate effectively with parents, caregivers, and staff regarding student progress and any concerns that may arise.
• Foster positive relationships with students, promoting a sense of belonging and encouraging positive behavior.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; paraprofessional licensure through ISBE.
• Experience working with children with autism or other developmental disabilities is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of early childhood development and the unique challenges faced by children with autism.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with students, families, and colleagues.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for working with young children.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment and adapt to changing needs.
• Proficiency in basic computer skills and willingness to learn new technologies as needed.
• Must pass background checks and any other required screenings.