Job Description

North Lawndale College Prep

Paraprofessional - 12 month

Position Summary

The Paraprofessional at North Lawndale College Prep (NLCP) supports teachers and staff in providing academic, behavioral, and social-emotional instruction and support to students, particularly those with special needs or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Working under the supervision of a certified teacher, the Paraprofessional helps reinforce learning objectives, manage classroom behavior, and assist students in fully accessing and participating in their educational experience.

This role is essential in helping ensure inclusive, student-centered learning environments, and requires flexibility, empathy, and a strong commitment to student growth. Paraprofessionals may also support students in daily living activities and mobility, and assist with classroom management, instructional delivery, and progress monitoring.

Reports To:

Principal or Designee

Position Responsibilities

Instructional and Academic Support

• Assist in reinforcing learning objectives set by classroom teachers through individual and small-group instruction.
• Support students in reading, writing, math, and other academic content areas, using strategies aligned with students' IEP goals or general education standards.
• Prepare and organize instructional materials and support technology-based learning tools.
• Assist in administering, scoring, and tracking student work, assignments, and assessments.
• Help adapt classroom activities and lessons to meet students' individualized needs.

Behavioral and Social-Emotional Support

• Support behavior plans and assist in implementing strategies aligned with student goals.
• Help students remain focused, safe, and engaged during class and transitions.
• Foster independence, self-advocacy, and social-emotional skills in all settings.
• Supervise students in classroom and non-classroom environments such as hallways, cafeteria, and during arrival/dismissal.

Physical Support and Daily Living Assistance

• Assist students with daily living skills, including toileting, feeding, mobility, and hygiene, as needed.
• Provide support with assistive technology, including communication devices, lifts, and orthopedic equipment.
• Monitor and assist students with medical needs according to documented health plans.

Schoolwide Support and Collaboration

• Collaborate with classroom teachers, special education staff, counselors, and case managers to meet student needs.
• Participate in IEP meetings and serve as a support resource for instructional teams.
• Help maintain a safe, clean, and supportive classroom environment.
• Provide support during school events, testing, field trips, and assemblies.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and sensitive information.

Communication and Professionalism

• Maintain clear and respectful communication with students, staff, and families.
• Provide regular updates on student progress and concerns to supervising teachers.
• Engage in professional development and training to stay current on best practices in student support and inclusive education.
• Respond promptly to school communications and follow all NLCP policies and procedures.

Position Requirements

• Associates degree or better preferred.
• A valid Illinois Paraprofessional Certification
• Previous experience working with youth, particularly students with special needs, strongly preferred.
• Commitment to educational equity, restorative practices, and student-centered learning.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to follow lesson plans, implement accommodations, and work independently under teacher supervision.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated patience, flexibility, and problem-solving abilities.
• Basic knowledge of child development, academic content areas, and behavioral interventions.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to legal and ethical standards.
• Comfortable using technology, including Google Suite and communication devices.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, and assist students physically throughout the day.
• Occasional lifting or transferring of students or equipment up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to respond quickly to safety concerns or behavioral escalations.
• Work is performed in classroom and school environments with moderate to high noise levels.

Conditions of Employment

• Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
• Compliance with all NLCP board policies and applicable laws and regulations.
• Completion of background check, required training, and certification as needed.

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