Teaching Assistant

EASTERSEALS CENTRAL ILLINOIS•Germantown Hills, IL

15h•$17 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

Teaching Assistants play a vital role in supporting students with autism, intellectual disabilities, emotional disabilities, developmental delays, and other health impairments at Easterseals Learning Academy. Working alongside teachers, therapists, and behavior support staff, you'll help create a structured, engaging, and supportive learning environment where students can grow academically, socially, emotionally, and functionally. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students as they develop the skills needed for greater independence at school, at home, and in their communities. Easterseals Learning Academy is an Illinois State Board of Education-approved non-public therapeutic day school serving students ages 5–21. Our goal is to empower students to achieve their highest potential by strengthening academic achievement, communication skills, social-emotional development, and functional life skills that promote greater independence. Our program features high staff-to-student ratios, collaborative teams, specialized classrooms, and individualized instruction aligned with Illinois learning standards. Every member of our team contributes to creating an environment where students feel supported, challenged, and celebrated for their progress.

Requirements

Successful completion of 60 semester hours of college credit from an accredited institution of higher education OR Successful completion of the paraprofessional examination approved by Illinois State Board of Education.
Registered Behavior Technician certification or willingness to complete training.
Receive training and pass competency tests in Crisis Prevention Intervention.
Valid Driver’s License.
Working knowledge of personal computers and software (MS Office Suite).
Demonstrate a positive attitude towards rules and regulations, notice, and comment on desirable aspects of student behavior, and demonstrate good humor and a reasonable sense of self-control over situations.
Maintain a high level of respect and professionalism for staff, parents, and community members at all times.
Maintain confidential information to safeguard clients and families.
Responsible for keeping resources and client files in order.
Must have visual ability sufficient to read and complete written correspondence, reports, etc., and computer screen information.
Frequent use of hands to grasp, handle or feel.
Regular standing, walking, sitting, and reaching.
Occasionally lift and/or carry up to fifty (50) pounds.
Engages in physical restraint of students, as necessary.
Ability to drive a personal vehicle to meetings and service sites.

Nice To Haves

Experience in special education, preferred.
Enjoys working with children and young adults with diverse learning needs
Demonstrates patience, empathy, and a positive attitude
Can provide encouragement while maintaining structure and consistency
Works collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and support staff
Is adaptable and comfortable responding to the changing needs of students throughout the day
Takes initiative while also seeking guidance when needed
Values creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment
Believe every student deserves the opportunity to learn and grow
Enjoy building positive relationships and celebrating student successes
Are patient and resilient when faced with challenges
Like being active and engaged throughout the day rather than sitting behind a desk
Work well with others and enjoy being part of a supportive team
Can adapt to changing student needs and classroom priorities
Find purpose in helping others become more independent and confident

Responsibilities

Completes paperwork such as attendance, weekly schedule, requisitions, and other required forms accurately, promptly, and according to ESLA procedures.
Understands, documents, and assists with any classroom or individual behavior management plans.
Performs day-to-day operations of the job showing self-confidence and independence.
Seeks consultation or guidance from the Teacher in unfamiliar situations, as needed.
Assists Teacher in routine paperwork and with making and preparing materials for classroom activities.
Develops an awareness of each student’s special needs; becomes familiar with student records and information.
Establishes priorities to complete work, meet deadlines, and be prepared for class each day.
Able to be reassigned as the need arises.
Conducts lessons with guidance and training from the teacher.
Supports student learning by answering questions, modeling or demonstrating skills, and participating in classroom discussions.
Provides re-teaching, guided practice, and assistance with assignments/tests/tasks to promote the acquisition of new skills.
Addresses specific functional or academic needs through modified activities, environmental accommodations, and adaptation.
Supports the development of students’ health and self-care by modeling, prompting, and positively reinforcing independence and self-care skills.
Supervises students during lunch, bathroom, and transitions outside of the classroom.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
Sick and Personal time
10 Paid Holidays throughout the year
Event Days: Earn additional PTO hours if you volunteer with us
All time off is in addition to Thanksgiving Break, Winter Break, Easter/Spring Break, and Summer Break
Comprehensive Group Health Insurance
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Flexible Spending Accounts for Medical and Dependent Care
Long-Term Disability, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Coverage
Life Insurance: Both Employer Paid and Employee Paid options available
401(K) with employer match
Professional Development & CEU Allowance
Easterseals qualifies for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness program