Para-Professional

Mary Crane Center; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Wellness programs

Job summary

Mary Crane Center in Chicago is seeking a Paraprofessional for Head Start classrooms. You will assist teachers, support children with disabilities, reinforce learning, and help manage routines and activities.

The role emphasizes teamwork, confidentiality, and ongoing professional development. Candidates with a valid paraprofessional license and Spanish language preference are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required, paraprofessional license preferred.
• Experience with children is preferred, especially in Head Start settings.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers with instruction and supervision for children with disabilities.
• Work one-on-one or in small groups to reinforce learning.
• Support routines, meals, and transitions in classroom settings.
• Use developmentally appropriate language and positive guidance.
• Help implement activities aligned with Head Start standards.
• Join field trips and document growth notes and milestones.
• Maintain safety, report concerns, and assist with attendance and records.
• Support with bus loading/unloading as needed.

Skills

Team-oriented

Strong communication

Confidentiality

Training & development

Bilingual Spanish (preferred)

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Paraprofessional License (preferred)

Tools

Basic computer proficiency

Job description

Support Every Child’s Potential, Right From the Start

Are you passionate about helping children with disabilities thrive in inclusive early learning environments? Do you believe every child deserves support, understanding, and opportunities to grow? If so, we invite you to join our team as a Paraprofessional in our Head Start classrooms.

What You’ll Do

Support Children with Care and Consistency

• Assist teachers in providing instruction and supervision, especially for children with moderate to severe disabilities
• Work one‑on‑one or in small groups to reinforce learning introduced by the teacher
• Support daily classroom routines including transitions, meals, and toileting
• Use developmentally appropriate language and positive guidance techniques
• Help implement classroom activities that align with Head Start, Creative Curriculum, and NAEYC standards
• Join field trips and neighborhood walks under teacher supervision
• Ensure children’s safety at all times and report any concerns of child abuse or neglect
• Assist with bus loading and unloading as needed

Document and Celebrate Growth

• Collect observation notes, photos, and approved documentation as directed by the Lead Teacher
• Help assess developmental progress and track student milestones

Plan, Prepare, and Participate

• Support lesson plan development by researching and contributing age‑appropriate activities
• Assist in individualizing activities for children with disabilities
• Help prepare classroom materials and support bulletin board displays
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and classroom planning sessions

Be a Collaborative Teammate

• Communicate regularly with the Lead Teacher, Assistant Teacher, and Site Director
• Attend in‑services, staff meetings, and professional development sessions
• Support administrative tasks including meal count sheets, attendance, and classroom records
• Maintain respectful and effective relationships with staff, families, and community partners

Keep Classrooms Clean and Ready to Learn

• Sanitize toys, surfaces, and equipment daily and weekly
• Maintain an organized, inviting learning environment
• Routinely check classroom materials and equipment for safety and repair

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid Paraprofessional License (preferred)
• Experience working with children is preferred

Skills & Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Team‑oriented with strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
• Willingness to engage in ongoing training and professional developmentComfortable working in a fast‑paced, child‑centered environment
• Basic computer proficiency and strong attention to detail
• Bilingual (Spanish) preferred

Physical & Work Environment Expectations

• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds, kneel, bend, sit on the floor, and move with children
• Regularly required to talk, see, hear, and use hands for tasks
• Work takes place in classroom settings with moderate to high noise levels
• May work at multiple agency locations and travel between sites for meetings or trainings

Why Join Us

• Be part of a dedicated team improving outcomes for children with disabilities
• Receive support from experienced teachers, directors, and coordinators
• Enjoy ongoing training and opportunities for professional growth
• Make a meaningful difference in your community every single day

Compensation & Benefits

Mary Crane Center offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes access to medical, dental, and vision insurance (HMO, PPO, and DPPO options), paid time off, and wellness support programs.

Eligibility and details will be shared during the hiring process.

Salary Description

$20 an hour

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law. To request accommodations, please contact 773-242-2881 x1004.