2025-2026 Paraprofessional

Paraprofessional (2025-2026 School Year)

The Chicago High School for the Arts is now accepting applications for a licensed Paraprofessional.

About ChiArts:

ChiArts develops the next generation of artistically gifted diverse scholar-artists through rigorous pre-professional arts training combined with a comprehensive college preparatory curriculum. We take a whole-student approach fostering continuous learning for both students and staff to ensure the highest level of support for our community. Our goal is to cultivate an inclusive dynamic environment where every student thrives academically and artistically.

Position Summary:

The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) Paraprofessional works under the 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. The Paraprofessional assists the Special Education teachers in reinforcing efforts with children with various disabilities including physical disabilities visual and hearing impairments learning disabilities behavior disorders emotional impairments and mental impairments in accordance with each students Individual Education Program (IEP).

Key Responsibilities:

• 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 including but not limited to specially equipped worktables positioning equipment wheelchairs tape recorders computers communication devices and mechanized page turners

• 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 behavior; accompanies students and teachers on class field trips

• Attends and participates in workshops and in service training to update job related skills.

Qualifications:

• Associates degree from an accredited college (Bachelors degree preferred).

• 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). Also refer to:

Illinois State Board of Education

Educator License Application

Work Keys

Paraprofessional Assessment

• Prior experience working in an educational setting preferred.

• Good knowledge of the characteristics of students with various disabilities and ability to work with students with various disabilities.

• Good knowledge of English grammar spelling and basic mathematics.

• Strong organizational oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to adapt and improve in dynamic educational environments.

• Passion for and understanding of arts education and working with diverse student populations.

• Commitment to collaborative teamwork and student-centered learning approaches.

Salary & Benefits:

• Salary Range:$40000 - $50000 (based on experience and qualifications).

• Full-time position with a competitive benefits package including health insurance retirement contributions and professional development opportunities.

How to Apply:

Apply now by visiting. Be sure to include:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Copy of your Professional Educator License

If you are passionate about education and excited to be part of a vibrant arts-focused school we encourage you to apply!