Paraprofessional (2025-2026)

Description

Perspectives Charter Schools Network is seeking a LBS Apprentices (Paraprofessionals) for the 2025 - 2026 school year!

About Perspectives Charter Schools

All Perspectives Charter Schools will provide scholars with a rigorous and relevant education, based on the ethical principles of A Disciplined Life®, preparing them for life in a changing world and helping them further become intellectually reflective, caring and ethical people engaged in a meaningful life. All of Perspectives Charter Schools achieved Level 1 or 2 this year. As one of the first charter schools in Illinois, Perspectives has a long record of preparing scholars for success in college and beyond. Our five schools across the South Side of Chicago offer an education that combines character development and academic rigor through the A Disciplined Life® education model. Our scholars come from some of the most disadvantaged neighborhoods in the country, but they graduate from high school, enroll in college, and persist in college at a rate above the national average. The keys to our success are our dedicated, hard‐working, creative, and compassionate colleagues.

Job Purpose

The Learning Behavior Specialist Apprentice plays a critical role in Perspectives Charter Schools. S/he assists in the collaborative effort to build and sustain a meaningful and rigorous educational experience within the parameters of Federal Law, for our students with disabilities (SWDs).  The Learning Behavior Specialist Apprentice supports either an individual or groups of students according to their Individualized Education Plan, while working under the direction of a classroom teacher. 
 
In addition, The Learning Behavior Specialist Apprentice learns alongside the classroom teacher regarding best practices in teaching, and upon completion of certification as an LBS1, may transition to an available and appropriate full time teaching position as a Learning Behavior Specialist within the Perspectives network.

Duties and Responsibilities 
Participates and assists in the educational and social development of students under the direction and guidance of a classroom teacher, including assisting the teacher in delivering both large and small group instruction.

• Under the direction of the teacher, implements modifications and accommodations and other educational or behavioral strategies used in the classroom.
• Assists the teacher in gathering documentation such as assessment data, anecdotal records, quantitative data, work samples, observations and reports from general education teachers.
• Facilitates communication with linguistically and culturally diverse parents.
• Supports the student with disabilities in the general education curriculum with activities as assigned by the teacher.
• Supports the student in the use of technology in the classroom.
• Collaborates and communicates with appropriate school personnel about the needs of students with disabilities.
• Assists in the implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and monitors their progress.  
• Performs other duties as assigned by Supervisor
• Maintains professional growth which includes attendance at training and development programs
• Monitors halls as needed
• Collects attendance and makes parent calls regarding absent students
• Enforces school uniform policy
• Assists teachers with disciplinary issues
• Makes parent phone calls regarding disciplinary issues
• Accompanies students on field studies.
• Assists in the supervision of students during lunchroom, transition periods and playground activities
• Performs other duties as assigned by Supervisor

Qualifications

• Certification as a Paraprofessional by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).
• Proof of enrollment in a Special Education preparation or Special Education alternative certification program--to be completed within three years of hire date.
• Ability to read and write proficiently using the English language.
• Ability to interact and speak effectively in interpersonal situations and before groups of people.
• Displays discretion, confidentiality, honesty and integrity in his/her relationships with the differing sectors of Perspectives and wider community.
• Demonstrates initiative and responsibility as the Learning Behavior Specialist Apprentice.
• Exhibits a strong commitment to the ethos of Perspectives Charter Schools by thriving to live by the 26 principles of A Disciplined Life®
• Serves as an advocate for social justice, the development of character, and the right to pursue and receive an exceptional education.

Physical Demands

Majority of work will be performed in a general office/school environment. Position requires availability for extended hours plus non-traditional hours required to perform job duties. Also requires participation and attendance at organization sponsored events and meetings.

Benefits Summary
Perspectives offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package for all full-time employees, including health insurance, dental, vision, paid time off including holidays, short and long term disability, paid life insurance, 403B and the Chicago Teachers' Pension Fund.
  


Perspectives Charter Schools works affirmatively to include diversity among its workforce and does not discriminate in the selection of its staff on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, income, marital status, or any other dimension of diversity. We encourage diverse candidates to apply for this position.