Special Education Paraprofessional - 2026/2027 School Year (Donoghue Campus)

University of Chicago•Chicago, IL

22h

About The Position

The Special Education Paraprofessional supports and facilitates the learning needs of special education students in the classroom, helping include them in classroom activities to the maximum extent possible. The paraprofessional works with classroom and special education teachers to establish student expectations, implement IEP requirements, adapt activities, create opportunities for students to work with classmates, and coordinate schedules around student needs. The role includes tracking student progress through evaluation programs; participating in the Academic Social Support Services program as scheduled and needed; and maintaining regular two-way communication and partnerships with parents and families. The paraprofessional collaborates with parents and special education staff to refine student plans and identify needs, participates in school professional development and meetings, and engages in learning and reading activities to deepen knowledge of student support. Other duties may be assigned. The position is for the 2026/2027 school year at the Donoghue Campus. The stated salary range is $36,000–$44,000, with compensation commensurate with experience and education. Eligible employees may access health, retirement, and paid-time-off benefits.

Requirements

Commitment to the success and achievement of all students, especially diverse learners.
Valid Illinois State Board of Education Paraprofessional License with appropriate endorsement.
Meet one of the following qualifications: an associate's degree; 60 semester hours of college credit from an appropriately accredited college or university; or successful completion of a state-approved paraprofessional assessment, supplemented by at least one year of work experience involving the care and supervision of children with disabilities.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with administrators, staff, students, parents, and community partners.
Ability to communicate clearly with multiple stakeholders.

Nice To Haves

Experience serving in an urban school environment.

Responsibilities

Work with classroom and special education teachers to determine student expectations and inclusion in activities.
Support the student in meeting IEP requirements by proactively communicating suggestions and ideas.
Adapt activities to meet the student's unique needs.
Create opportunities for the student to work with classmates.
Coordinate with special education staff, case workers, and the campus director to set schedules and release times based on student needs.
Implement evaluation programs to track student progress.
Participate in the Academic Social Support Services program as scheduled and needed.
Maintain regular two-way communication and partnerships with parents and families regarding curriculum, assessment, and student-specific concerns.
Collaborate regularly with parents and special education staff to refine the student's plan and define needs.
Participate in weekly professional development sessions, other appropriate meetings, and NKO professional development programs.
Engage in professional development and reading activities to deepen knowledge of how to support students.
Perform other duties as assigned.