District Paraeducator

JOB TITLE: PARAEDUCATOR

POSITION LEVEL: ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL

SUPERVISOR: PRINCIPAL OR ADMINISTRATIVE DESIGNEE

JOB SUMMARY: The Paraeducator serves as an essential member of the instructional team at West Harvey-Dixmoor School District 147, providing direct support to students in both general education and special education settings. Under the direction of a licensed teacher or special education coordinator, the Paraeducator assists with the delivery of instruction, behavioral support, and daily classroom management to foster a safe, inclusive, and effective learning environment for all students across elementary and middle school grade levels.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Completion of 60 college credit hours OR passage of a state-approved paraprofessional assessment (e.g., ParaPro Assessment) as required under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
• Prior experience working with children in a school, childcare, or similar educational setting preferred.
• Displays proficiency in Microsoft Office applications: Word, PowerPoint, and Google platforms for communications.
• Demonstrates enthusiasm when supporting students and communicating with staff and families.
• Presents a positive, professional, and ethical image to students, parents, and staff.
• Demonstrates the ability to serve as a supportive educational advocate for students.
• Uses clear and concise oral and written communications; strong interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrates the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and to take direction from licensed professionals.
• Bilingual skills preferred (English/Spanish or other languages spoken in the district community).

Health examination for new employees part-time or full-time:

Chapter 122 Article 24-5 of Illinois School Code mandates that School boards shall require of new employees evidence of physical fitness to perform duties assigned and freedom from communicable disease, including tuberculosis. Such evidence shall consist of a physical examination and a tuberculin test and, if appropriate, an x-ray. The cost of such examination shall rest with the employee.

• Must pass a comprehensive drug screening.
• Must pass a comprehensive criminal background check.
• Must be able to lift or move at least 50 lbs.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists classroom teachers in delivering instruction aligned with lesson plans, district-approved curriculum, and individual student goals.
• Works one-on-one or in small groups with students who need additional academic support, reinforcement, or enrichment.
• Supports students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), 504 plans, and behavior plans under the direction of the licensed teacher or special education coordinator.
• Adapts and prepares instructional materials and resources as directed by the supervising teacher.
• Implements positive behavioral intervention strategies consistent with school-wide and individual student behavior plans.
• Monitors and documents student behavior, progress, attendance, and incidents as directed by supervising staff.
• Assists students in developing self-regulation, social skills, and conflict resolution strategies.
• Creates and maintains a positive and safe environment conducive to teaching and learning.
• Supervises students in classrooms, hallways, cafeteria, assemblies, field trips, and during extracurricular activities.
• Displays patience, empathy, and tolerance when working with all students.
• Demonstrates firmness and fairness with supervision and appropriate behavioral redirection of students.
• Assists with classroom setup, preparation of materials, and maintenance of an organized learning environment.
• Maintains accurate records of student performance, progress data, and daily documentation as required.
• Provides personal care assistance (e.g., feeding, mobility, hygiene) for students with physical or medical needs, as trained and assigned.
• Follows all health and safety protocols, including confidentiality requirements under FERPA and applicable law.
• Participates in IEP meetings, team meetings, open houses, parent-teacher conferences, and professional development as required.
• Collaborates with colleagues to support instructional practices and a positive school climate.
• Demonstrates skills and effectiveness in working with diverse student populations.
• Demonstrates a collaborative and professional work ethic.
• Adheres to Board Policy, administrative rules, and regulations.
• Reports to work daily and arrives on time.
• Takes responsibility as a mandated reporter.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Non-Exempt, Support Staff. School year, full-time or part-time as assigned.

EVALUATION: Evaluated by the Principal or Designee in accordance with applicable district policies and procedures.

SALARY: Compensation is based on the Support Staff Salary Schedule in accordance with district guidelines.