Mary Crane Center·Chicago, Illinois
The paraprofessional will assist teachers in providing instruction and supervision to preschool children with disabilities within a Head Start classroom. Responsibilities include supporting daily routines, documenting student progress, and maintaining a clean, safe, and organized learning environment.
Description Support Every Child’s Potential, Right From the Start Are you passionate about helping children with disabilities thrive in inclusive early learning environments? Do you believe every child deserves support, understanding, and opportunities to grow? If so, we invite you to join our team as a Paraprofessional in our Head Start classrooms.
As a Paraprofessional, you’ll work alongside classroom teachers to support preschool children with diagnosed disabilities. You’ll help create a safe, nurturing, and well-organized learning space where all children can access the curriculum, engage in play, and build foundational skills for lifelong success. What You’ll Do Support Children with Care and Consistency Assist teachers in providing instruction and supervision, especially for children with moderate to severe disabilities Work one-on-one or in small groups to reinforce learning introduced by the teacher Support daily classroom routines including transitions, meals, and toileting Use developmentally appropriate language and positive guidance techniques Help implement classroom activities that align with Head Start, Creative Curriculum, and NAEYC standards Join field trips and neighborhood walks under teacher supervision Ensure children’s safety at all times and report any concerns of child abuse or neglect Assist with bus loading and unloading as needed Document and Celebrate Growth Collect observation notes, photos, and approved documentation as directed by the Lead Teacher Help assess developmental progress and track student milestones Plan, Prepare, and Participate Support lesson plan development by researching and contributing age-appropriate activities Assist in individualizing activities for children with disabilities Help prepare classroom materials and support bulletin board displays Participate in team meetings, trainings, and classroom planning sessions Be a Collaborative Teammate Communicate regularly with the Lead Teacher, Assistant Teacher, and Site Director Attend in-services, staff meetings, and professional development sessions Support administrative tasks including meal count sheets, attendance, and classroom records Maintain respectful and effective relationships with staff, families, and community partners Keep Classrooms Clean and Ready to Learn Sanitize toys, surfaces, and equipment daily and weekly Maintain an organized, inviting learning environment Routinely check classroom materials and equipment for safety and repair
Education & Experience: High School Diploma or GED Valid Paraprofessional License (required) Experience working with children is preferred Skills & Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years old Team-oriented with strong communication and interpersonal skills Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism Willingness to engage in ongoing training and professional development Comfortable working in a fast-paced, child-centered environment Basic computer proficiency and strong attention to detail Bilingual (Spanish) preferred Physical & Work Environment Expectations Ability to lift up to 30 pounds, kneel, bend, sit on the floor, and move with children Regularly required to talk, see, hear, and use hands for tasks Work takes place in classroom settings with moderate to high noise levels May work at multiple agency locations and travel between sites for meetings or trainings Why Join Us Be part of a dedicated team improving outcomes for children with disabilities Receive support from experienced teachers, directors, and coordinators Enjoy ongoing training and opportunities for professional growth Make a meaningful difference in your community every single day
Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law. To request accommodations, please contact 773-242-2881 x1004.
Market context
In Illinois, teaching assistant roles are commonly driven by school staffing needs in special education and general classroom support, especially where paraprofessional licensing is required. These positions can be competitive because employers often look for a valid TASN paraprofessional license, at least 60 semester hours or a paraprofessional exam, plus strong communication and knowledge of disabilities. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits from the original posting to save research time, then confirm your license status and readiness to follow classroom directions before applying.