Special Education Paraprofessional

DutiesParaprofessional - Special Education (Full-Time)UCP - Center for Disability Services | Year-Round Therapeutic Day SchoolMonday-Friday | 8:30 AM - 2:30 PMEmpowering Every Student, Every Day.At UCP - Center for Disability Services, our mission is to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling, independent lives. We serve over 300 individuals annually through innovative, compassionate, and person-centered programs that foster inclusion, independence, and a high quality of life.We're currently seeking dedicated Paraprofessionals to join our supportive and dynamic school team.Position Overview:As a Paraprofessional in our year-round therapeutic day school, you'll play a key role in supporting the individualized academic and social development of students with a range of disabilities. Working alongside educators and therapists, you'll help create a safe, respectful, and inclusive classroom environment.Key Responsibilities:Instructional & IEP SupportUnderstand and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)Assist with instructional activities, prompting strategies, and data collectionSupport students in classroom and community-based learning environmentsStudent AssistanceProvide one-on-one and small group supportAssist with daily living activities including toileting, hygiene, and mobilitySupport behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and promote positive behaviorHelp students with physical transitions (positioning, lifting, transferring) as neededUse respectful, trauma-informed approaches in all interactionsCollaboration & CommunicationWork closely with teachers, therapists, and behavior specialistsUnderstand behavior as communication and respond with appropriate strategiesMaintain professional and supportive communication with all staff and studentsProfessional Development* Participate in ongoing training, team meetings, and development sessions* Stay up to date on best practices in special education and behavioral supportEthical & Safety StandardsFollow mandated reporter and Office of Inspector General (OIG) guidelinesMaintain student confidentiality and dignityAdhere to all UCP/CDS policies and COVID-19 protocolsOther Duties as Assigned* Support classroom transitions, school events, and other team needs as requiredkills & Requirements:Ability to obtain and maintain CPR and agency-required crisis prevention/intervention certificationPhysical ability to lift up to 50 pounds, bend, floor-sit, and engage in physical support tasksAbility to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environmentCommitment to inclusion, respect, and student-centered careQualificationsQualifications:Education & Certification:* Illinois State-Approved Paraprofessional License (required).Don't have one yet? No problem - we can guide you through the process and help you get certified!Salary/BenefitsWhat We Offer:Consistent, family-friendly daytime scheduleOngoing training and professional developmentCollaborative, mission-driven school cultureOpportunity to make a meaningful difference every dayFull benefits eligibility starting the 1st of the month after 30 days of employmentBe a part of something bigger. Support students. Empower growth. Inspire potential.Apply today and join our caring community at UCP - Center for Disability Services.Job Type: Full-timeBenefits:401(k)403(b)AD&D insuranceDental insuranceEmployee assistance programFlexible spending accountHealth insuranceLife insurancePaid time offProfessional development assistanceRetirement planTuition reimbursementVision insurancePay: From $19.70 per hourEmail Addressnancyh@ucp-cds.orgSchool Districthttps://ucp-cds.org/Position Websitehttps://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=77ef00b35cfa348c&from=shareddesktop_copyILearn LinkILearnReport Card LinkDistrict Report CardJob Posting Date4/16/2026Start DateN/A