Paraprofessional

Kairos Academies; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Signing bonus $3,000

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

Professional Development

Tuition Assistance

Wellness Reimbursement

Job summary

Kairos Academies in St. Louis, MO, is seeking a paraprofessional to support classroom teachers, reinforce learning, and help students develop executive-function skills in an inclusive, outcomes-driven environment. You will supervise students, assist with materials and accommodations, and serve as a Kairos Coach for a small cohort.

A commitment to belonging, equity, and student growth is essential. Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–4:00 PM; benefits include health, dental, vision, PTO, and tuition

Qualifications

• Requires a high school diploma or GED and experience with students.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills are essential.
• Preferred: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree and familiarity with instructional tech or data systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide instructional reinforcement under teachers’ directions for general and special education students.
• Lead small-group and one-on-one sessions to build academic, social, and behavioral skills.
• Support implementation of accommodations and modifications per IEPs or support plans.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate or Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Instructional technology

Data tracking systems

Job description

Location: St. Louis, MO
Department: Student Support / Schools
Reports To: Director of Student Support Services
Classification: Full-Time / Non-Exempt

About Kairos Academies

Kairos Academies is a forward-thinking public charter school network in South St. Louis reimagining education for the 21st century.
Our mission is to cultivate an integrated community of self-directed learners, leaders, and citizens.

Recognized nationally for innovation and excellence, Kairos replaces traditional lectures with personalized, project-based learning and emphasizes executive-function coaching to help students take ownership of their education and their lives.
We serve a diverse, vibrant community united by the belief that every learner deserves belonging, agency, and opportunity.

Why This Role Matters

Paraprofessionals are the heartbeat of inclusive learning at Kairos.
They ensure every student experiences a safe, engaging, and equitable classroom—where curiosity is encouraged, effort is celebrated, and every learner feels seen.

This role supports classroom teachers in delivering differentiated instruction, reinforcing learning goals, and helping students grow in both confidence and independence.

At Kairos, we hire for mindset as much as skill. Our best paraprofessionals are empathetic, curious, and adaptable—committed to learning alongside our students every day.

The ideal candidate models Love, Excellence, Agency, and Diversity in every interaction, contributing to a culture of belonging and growth across the school community.

Core Responsibilities

Instructional & Student Support

• Provide instructional reinforcement under the direction of classroom teachers, supporting both general education and special education students.
• Lead small-group and one-on-one sessions to strengthen academic, social, and behavioral skills.
• Support implementation of accommodations and modifications outlined in IEPs or support plans.
• Track and communicate student progress to the classroom teacher and student support team.
• Reinforce positive classroom culture and help students develop executive-function and self-management skills.

Classroom & Schoolwide Support

• Supervise students in classrooms, hallways, and schoolwide settings (arrival, dismissal, lunch, transitions).
• Assist with classroom organization, materials preparation, grading, and maintaining an orderly environment.
• Support school events, assemblies, and enrichment opportunities that build community and belonging.
• Collaborate closely with teachers, specialists, and families to promote student success and engagement.

Coaching & Mentorship

• Serve as a Kairos Coach for a small pod of students, meeting 2–3 times per week to help them set goals, track progress, and build life and learning skills.
• Participate in coaching and feedback cycles that foster your own professional growth.
• Model perseverance, empathy, and optimism for students each day.

Key Indicators of Success

• Consistent demonstration of Kairos’ core values of Love, Excellence, Agency, and Diversity.
• Reliable attendance, communication, and follow-through on assigned responsibilities.
• Positive feedback from students, families, and teachers on support and collaboration.
• Observable growth in student engagement, confidence, and independence.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED
• Experience working with students in educational or youth development settings
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
• Commitment to student safety, inclusion, and growth

Preferred

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree
• Missouri Substitute or Paraprofessional Certification (required for certified salary tier)
• Experience supporting students with special needs, IEPs, or behavioral plans
• Familiarity with instructional technology or data tracking systems
• Monday–Friday, approximately 7:30 AM–4:00 PM
• Occasional after-school events or family engagement meetings
• Active school environment requiring frequent student interaction and movement

Compensation & Benefits

Annual Salary Range:

• Plus a $3,000 signing bonus

Benefits Include:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Professional Development and Tuition Assistance
• Wellness Reimbursement Program
• Comprehensive Coaching and Growth Opportunities

Join Our Team

If you believe every child deserves an adult who sees their potential—and you’re ready to grow in a feedback-rich, high-trust environment,we’d love to hear from you.

Join us in shaping the future of education at Kairos Academies.