Special Education Teaching Assistant - Emerson Elementary School

DuPage ROE; Wheaton (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution is seeking a Support Staff / Teaching Assistant for Special Education to assist students with disabilities and support teachers. The role involves providing instructional support, maintaining confidentiality, and fostering positive relationships within the school environment. Candidates must hold valid Illinois educator licenses and demonstrate effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Qualifications

• Valid Illinois educator licenses or paraprofessional endorsements required.
• Ability to work effectively with children and within the school framework.
• Knowledge of computers and classroom procedures.

Responsibilities

• Assist in providing a balanced instructional program.
• Reinforce lessons and instructions.
• Implement behavior modification plans as needed.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Child guidance

Behavior management

Record-keeping

Education

Current Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)

Current Illinois Substitute Teaching License

Associate degree or higher

Job description

Position: Support Staff / Teaching Assistant - Special Education

Date Posted: 5/16/2025

Location: Emerson Elementary

District: Community Unit School District 200

The role involves supporting the educational needs of students with disabilities, assisting teachers in instructional and non-instructional activities, and working effectively within the school environment. Qualifications include valid Illinois educator licenses or paraprofessional endorsements, with specific requirements outlined for each licensure type.

Licensure Requirements:

• Current Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
• Current Illinois Substitute Teaching License
• Current Illinois Educator License with Stipulations - Paraprofessional Educator (if applicable):
  • Associate degree or higher from an accredited institution or equivalent qualifications listed.
• Current Illinois Short Term Approval (STA) - Paraprofessional, with requirements including age, application, and proof of high school graduation.

Additional Qualifications:

• Ability to work effectively with children and within the school framework.
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills.
• Knowledge of computers, child guidance, behavior management, classroom procedures, and basic record-keeping.

Responsibilities:

1. Assist in providing a balanced instructional program, encouraging observation, questioning, and investigation.
2. Reinforce lessons and instructions.
3. Work with students individually or in small groups on academic and life skills.
4. Implement behavior modification plans as needed.
5. Maintain confidentiality and positive relationships with students, staff, and parents.
6. Observe and record student progress.
7. Assist during activities such as recess, lunch, and transportation.
8. Support hygiene and toileting activities, including lifting and sanitizing.

Physical and Environmental Demands:

Regularly sit, stand, walk, climb, and perform physical tasks including lifting up to 100 lbs and pushing/pulling up to 80 lbs. Be aware of potential hazards including exposure to communicable diseases and physical injury risks from aggressive behaviors.