Paraprofessional(s) - 2026-2027

"Empowering Students and Staff Everyday" Title: Paraprofessional Beginning Date: 2026-2027 School Year Qualifications: Illinois State-Approved Paraprofessional License required; NCLB-Approved Paraprofessional License preferred; excellent communication skills; ability to work in a dynamic school environment; ability to lift up to 50 pounds; previous experience with Special Education students preferred; knowledge of research-based reading and math interventions and Aimsweb preferred Reports To: Director of Special Education, Building Principal, and Supervising Special Education Teacher/Case Manager or General Education Teacher/Interventionist. Goal: To provide direct supportive services to special education programs, students, and teachers.

Performance Responsibilities:

Paraprofessional duties will vary depending upon the age of students served as well as the nature and severity of the student's disabilities.

A. Professional Responsibilities

1. The paraprofessional exhibits professionalism and commitment through punctuality, attendance, completion of job responsibilities, demonstration of ethical behavior and confidentiality of information about students in the school environment and the community.
2. Observes and follows all Morris Elementary School District 54 policies and procedures.

B. Behavior Management Supports

1. Assists with strategies for maintaining orderly behavior on an individual and/or group basis in all school settings.
2. Monitor and respond appropriately to student behavior in accordance with District 54 policies and procedures, classroom rules, and Individualized Education Plans/Behavior Intervention Plans.
3. Collect data on student behavior and performance.

C. Classroom Supports

1. Work with individual or groups of students to reinforce skills as introduced or outlined by certified staff members.
2. Assists certified staff in devising special strategies for reinforcing learning materials and skills based on individual or group needs, interests, and skills.
3. Provide accommodations, modifications, and supplementary aides as outlined by certified staff members and the Individualized Education Plan(s).
4. Collect data on student performance and academics skills acquisition.

D. Relationships with Students, Parents, and Staff

1. Works with teacher to establish and maintain open and positive lines of communication with students, other staff, and parents concerning academics, performance, and behavior.
2. Establishes and maintains cooperative relations with other staff members and supervisors.
3. Assists the teacher/administration in upholding and enforcing classroom, school, and District rules and policies.

E. Other

1. Monitor work, correct papers, and supervise curriculum-based testing and makeup work as assigned by certified staff.
2. Perform clerical, classroom, and instructional duties as assigned by the certified staff.
3. Alert appropriate certified staff to any problems or special information about student(s).
4. Perform assigned supervision of students during breakfast, lunch, and/or snack periods, play periods, field trips, extra curriculular activities, school sponsored events, etc…
5. Perform assigned non-instructional duties such as toileting, hygiene, lifting, etc…
6. Participation in in-services, trainings, meetings, or other previously approved professional development.
7. Performance of all other duties as assigned by the Director or his/her designee, Building Principals/Assistant Principals, and/or supervising/assigned teacher.

Work Year: Part-Time in accordance with the student calendar (176 days) Contact Person: Mrs. Michelle Nettles, Director of Student Services Contact Information: mnettles@morris54.org or (815) 942-0056