Merlin Day Academy
Location
Chicago, Illinois
Salary
$20 - $22 / HOUR
Support children ages 6-14 with neurodiverse needs by assisting with individualized therapy activities and classroom preparation. Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of therapists to maintain a positive, play-based learning environment.
Requires an Associate's or Bachelor's degree (or 60 college credits) and a valid ISBE Paraprofessional License. Candidates must be able to lift up to 25lbs, with experience in special needs preferred.
As a Special Education Classroom Aide, you will support children ages 6-14 years old with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and other neurodiverse needs. In this role, you'll help promote each child's cognitive, social, emotional, adaptive, and developmental growth by: Assisting with individualized therapy activities and classroom/lesson preparation Supporting clients during group therapy rotations Collaborating daily with occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, and social workers Helping maintain a positive, engaging, play-based learning environment Compensation & Benefits
$20-22/hour Health Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision + Life & Disability Insurance Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) Competitive PTO and Holiday Allowances 401(k) with Employer Contributions Continuing Education (CEU) Reimbursement Employee Referral Program Schedule & Location Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 AM - 3:00 PM OR 7:45 AM–2:45 PM Location: 3319 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL (Free onsite parking available)
Bachelor's or Associate's degree OR completion of at least 60 semester hours of college-level coursework ISBE Paraprofessional License required Experience working with children or clients with special needs is a plus Ability to lift up to 25lbs Why Join Merlin Day Academy? Supportive, collaborative, and mission-driven culture Professional growth opportunities, including mentorship and CEU support The chance to make a real difference in the lives of children with neurodiverse needs Please see our full Special Education Classroom Aide job description attached to this posting, along with details of our competitive benefits package. Apply today at threebirdsonemission.com/careers to join our mission of empowering children with neurodiverse needs to succeed!
Market context
Special education classroom aide and teacher assistant roles in Illinois are typically in steady demand because schools need support staff who can help implement individualized instruction and classroom routines. This role is competitive when candidates already hold the required ISBE Paraprofessional License, meet the education threshold, and can show experience with special needs children; the listed insurance benefits may also help distinguish offers. Before applying, confirm your license status and prepare examples of supporting students with diverse needs. Job requirements and benefits here are AI-summarized from the original posting, saving you research time.
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