Instructional Assistant/Paraprofessional

About us

Alexander Leigh Center for Autism is a therapeutic day school in McHenry,IL. We are creative, collaborative, outside-the-box thinkers and our goal is to help children with autism and those that love them to thrive!

Our work environment includes:

• Teaching and Training
• Growth opportunities
• The ability to work with like-minded professionals

PURPOSE: The Instructional Assistant is a hands-on position within the classroom that provides instructional opportunities to the students in a variety of individual and group settings under the direct supervision of the classroom teacher. This role is responsible for daily implementation and data collection of student IEPs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Work directly with students in a variety of teaching environments (one-on-one, small group, large group) as assigned by supervising teacher.

· Implements student’s IEPs; including plans/protocols, goals, and programs.

· Collects data on student’s IEPs; including plans/protocols, goals, programs, and behavior data.

· Transfer daily data into student-specific binders.

· Record anecdotal information through daily home logs and daily notes.

· Collaborate with members of the student’s IEP team (e.g. Teacher, Program Manager, ST, OT, MT, Vocation, BCBA, PCM Instructors) regarding student performance and IEP progress.

· Create and maintain student-specific and general classroom materials.

· Maintain organization and cleanliness of classroom and other school environments.

· Participate in before and after school meetings; including classroom late nights, student-specific implementations, weekly PCM practice, and team meetings.

· Complete and submit incident reports within 24 hours of an incident, when needed.

· Implement personal safety and crisis intervention procedures, as needed.

· Must follow dress code and wear ALCA issued protective equipment during student hours.

· Maintain student, parent, organization, and staff confidentiality.

· Adhere to regular, consistent, and punctual attendance.

· Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS:

· Paraprofessional Certification from ISBE or Illinois State Board of Education Substitute Teacher Certification (Type 39) and above

SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

· Detail oriented

· Ability to quickly problem solve and multi-task in a fast-paced work environment

· Ability to be CPR/First Aid Certified and maintain certifications

· Complete and maintain PCM Certification through initial certification class and annual re-certification classes

· Effectively communicate within a collaborative, team environment

· Maintain professionalism in the work place with students, supervisors, co-workers, community members, and families

· Ability to remain calm in challenging situations

· Willingness to learn with a solution-focused mindset

· Respond appropriately to feedback and maintain or improve performance accordingly

EXPECTATIONS: Desire to work with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other disabilities. Exhibit professional conduct with school colleagues, students, parents, school districts, and the community-at-large in accordance with ALCA policies, procedures and work rules. Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed. Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading technical publications, and attending In-Services. Follow company organizational chart and seek proper chain of command for questions and/or concerns. Maintain employee confidence by keeping all employee, organization and student information confidential.

Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications
- Professional development opportunities to enhance your skills in working with students with special needs
- Supportive work environment with a collaborative team of educators
- Opportunity for growth within the organization

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students with special needs, we encourage you to apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.50 - $21.16 per hour

Expected hours: 39.5 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Bereavement leave
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Physical Setting:

• Special education school

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• No weekends

Ability to Commute:

• McHenry, IL 60050 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• McHenry, IL 60050: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $21