Para-Professional

Mary Crane Center • Chicago, IL

51d • $20 - $22

About The Position

The Paraprofessional works alongside classroom teachers in Head Start classrooms to support preschool children with diagnosed disabilities, including moderate to severe disabilities. The role helps create a safe, nurturing, organized, and inclusive learning environment where children can access the curriculum, participate in play, and build foundational skills.

The Paraprofessional supports instruction, supervision, classroom routines, developmental activities, and individualized learning. The role also contributes to observation and progress documentation, lesson planning, classroom preparation, teamwork and communication, administrative records, and maintaining clean and safe classrooms. Work takes place in classroom settings with moderate to high noise levels and may require travel between agency locations for meetings or trainings.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Team-oriented, with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Willingness to engage in ongoing training and professional development.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, child-centered environment.
• Basic computer proficiency and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds, kneel, bend, sit on the floor, and move with children.
• Regular ability to talk, see, hear, and use hands for tasks.

Nice To Haves

• Valid Paraprofessional License.
• Experience working with children.
• Bilingual Spanish.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers with instruction and supervision, especially for children with moderate to severe disabilities.
• Work one-on-one or in small groups to reinforce learning introduced by the teacher.
• Support daily classroom routines, including transitions, meals, and toileting.
• Use developmentally appropriate language and positive guidance techniques.
• Help implement classroom activities aligned with Head Start, Creative Curriculum, and NAEYC standards.
• Join field trips and neighborhood walks under teacher supervision.
• Ensure children’s safety and report concerns of child abuse or neglect.
• Assist with bus loading and unloading as needed.
• Collect observation notes, photos, and approved documentation as directed by the Lead Teacher.
• Help assess developmental progress and track student milestones.
• Support lesson plan development by researching and contributing age-appropriate activities.
• Assist in individualizing activities for children with disabilities.
• Help prepare classroom materials and support bulletin board displays.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and classroom planning sessions.
• Communicate regularly with the Lead Teacher, Assistant Teacher, and Site Director.
• Attend in-services, staff meetings, and professional development sessions.
• Support administrative tasks, including meal count sheets, attendance, and classroom records.
• Maintain respectful and effective relationships with staff, families, and community partners.
• Sanitize toys, surfaces, and equipment daily and weekly.
• Maintain an organized, inviting learning environment.
• Routinely check classroom materials and equipment for safety and repair.

Benefits

• Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance, with HMO, PPO, and DPPO options.
• Paid time off.
• Wellness support programs.
• Ongoing training and opportunities for professional growth.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED