At a Glance
- Tasks: Support special education teachers in helping students with disabilities thrive in the classroom.
- Company: Join Chicago Public Schools, a leader in inclusive education.
- Benefits: Comprehensive health coverage, paid leave, and retirement plans to secure your future.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with disabilities every day.
- Qualifications: Valid paraprofessional license and a passion for supporting diverse learners.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 51000 £ per year.
Under the general direction of the school principal, and under the immediate supervision of a Special Education teacher holding a valid teaching certificate directly engaged in teaching subject matter or conducting activities, assists in the instruction of disabled students; and performs related duties as required.
Characteristics of the Class
- Assists Special Education teachers in elementary and high schools in reinforcing efforts with children with various disabilities, including physical disabilities, visual and hearing impairments, learning disabilities, behaviour disorders, emotional impairments, and mental impairments in accordance with each student’s Individual Education Program (IEP).
- Lifts and positions non-ambulatory students during the school day as instructed by the teacher and in adherence to written instruction from students’ personal physicians.
- Provides one-on-one tutoring services for students to present or reinforce learning concepts.
- Provides one-on-one personal hygiene services for students with severe disabilities, including toileting, changing soiled diapers, and cleaning soiled children regardless of age.
- Assists students with orthopedic impairments by arranging and adjusting tools, work aids, and equipment used by students in classrooms.
- Assists teacher in instructing students in daily living skills required for independent maintenance and economic self-sufficiency.
- Accompanies students to swimming pools and medical clinics to assist in removing clothing and performing other personal services which students are unable to perform themselves.
- Assists in feeding students unable to do so themselves.
- Takes notes in classrooms for students unable to do so themselves.
- Corrects homework assignments and examination materials.
- Assists teachers in maintaining written records of students’ behaviour.
- Accompanies students and teachers on class field trips.
- Attends and participates in workshops and in-service training to update job-related skills.
Marginal Functions
- May utilize aggressive management techniques to physically restrain violent students.
- May administer Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) as directed by the teacher.
- May operate audio-visual equipment.
- May operate photocopying equipment.
Minimum Qualifications
- Must possess a valid TASN (NCLB) paraprofessional license from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), which may be applied for and obtained after the successful completion of at least 60 semester hours of college credit at a college or university accredited by the North Central Association or successful completion of a paraprofessional exam (Work Keys or Parapro).
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skill
- Good knowledge of the characteristics of students with various disabilities.
- Good knowledge of English grammar and spelling.
- Good knowledge of basic mathematics.
- Ability to work with and for students with various disabilities, ages birth to twenty-one (21) years of age.
- Ability to follow written and oral instructions and direction.
- Ability to complete and maintain basic written reports.
- Ability to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is highly desirable.
- Good oral and written communication skills.
- Skill in the operation of photocopying and audio-visual equipment is highly desirable.
Physical Requirements
Medium Work: Exerting up to fifty (50) pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to twenty (20) pounds of force frequently, and/or up to ten (10) pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demands include the ability to reach, handle, and finger objects; talk and hear; occasional use of near visual acuity and frequent use of far visual acuity.
Benefits
- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive health coverage to employees and their eligible dependents.
- Financial Security: Basic life insurance, life and disability insurance, pension plans, supplemental retirement plans (403(b) and 457(b)), flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
- Work-Life Balance: Paid leave, sick leave, vacation days, parental leaves, short-term disability, religious holidays.
Reference the Chicago Public Schools: A Comprehensive Benefits Overview or the benefits handbook for comprehensive details.
Special Ed Classroom Assist (Early Childhood SPED) in Chester-le-Street employer: Chicago Public Schools
Chicago Public Schools is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff. As a Special Education Classroom Assistant, you will benefit from comprehensive health coverage, generous paid leave, and opportunities for continuous training, all while making a meaningful impact in the lives of students with disabilities in a vibrant community setting on the South Side.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Special Ed Classroom Assist (Early Childhood SPED) in Chester-le-Street
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work with special needs. They might know of openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in local community events related to special education. This not only boosts your visibility but also shows your commitment to the field. Plus, you never know who you might meet!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions specific to special education roles. Think about scenarios where you've made a difference in a child's learning experience and be ready to share those stories.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that Special Ed Classroom Assistant role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
We think you need these skills to ace Special Ed Classroom Assist (Early Childhood SPED) in Chester-le-Street
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for working with children with disabilities shine through. We want to see that you genuinely care about making a difference in their lives!
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have, especially if it involves working with special needs students. We love seeing how your background aligns with the role, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate when applicants can communicate effectively, just like we expect you to do with our students!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chicago Public Schools
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the characteristics of students with various disabilities. Brush up on your knowledge of IEPs and how to support students with different needs. This will show that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with personal hygiene services and any relevant training, like CPR. If you’ve worked with special education before, share specific examples of how you’ve helped students succeed. This will highlight your hands-on skills and commitment.
✨Prepare for Scenarios
Think about potential situations you might face in the role, such as managing challenging behaviour or assisting with daily living skills. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident and demonstrate your problem-solving abilities during the interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions about the school’s approach to special education and how they support their staff. This shows that you’re not only interested in the position but also invested in the well-being of the students and the team you'll be working with.
