Special Education Aide — Play‑Based Therapy & Growth

Merlin Day Academy; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 28,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Benefits

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

PTO and Holidays

401(k) with Employer Contributions

CEU Reimbursement

Employee Referral Program

Job summary

Merlin Day Academy in Chicago, IL is seeking a Special Education Classroom Aide to join our multidisciplinary team. You will support children ages 6-14 with ASD, ADHD, and related needs through play-based, child-centered activities in a therapeutic day school setting.

This role emphasizes collaboration with occupational, physical, and speech therapists, promoting cognitive, social, emotional, and developmental growth while maintaining a positive learning environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree OR completion of at least 60 semester hours.
• ISBE Paraprofessional License required.
• Experience working with children or clients with special needs is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist with individualized therapy activities and classroom/lesson preparation.
• Supporting clients during group therapy rotations.
• Collaborating daily with occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, and social workers.
• Helping maintain a positive, engaging, play-based learning environment.

Education

Bachelor's or Associate's degree OR completion of at least 60 semester hours

ISBE Paraprofessional License

Job description

Merlin Day Academy in Chicago, IL is seeking a Special Education Classroom Aide to join our multidisciplinary team. You will support children ages 6-14 with ASD, ADHD, and related needs through play-based, child-centered activities in a therapeutic day school setting.

This role emphasizes collaboration with occupational, physical, and speech therapists, promoting cognitive, social, emotional, and developmental growth while maintaining a positive learning environment.