Paraprofessional

Special Education Paraprofessional – Rockford, IL

Job Type: Full-Time
Location: Rockford, Illinois

About Parkland Preparatory Academy

Parkland Preparatory Academy is an innovative therapeutic day school serving students ages 5–21. Our mission is to meet students where they are academically, socially, and emotionally while helping them develop the skills necessary to succeed and, when appropriate, transition to a less restrictive educational environment.

We are seeking a dedicated Special Education Paraprofessional to join our Rockford campus. At Parkland, you’ll work alongside a collaborative team of professionals in a supportive environment that encourages creativity, professional growth, and meaningful connections with students.

Requirements and Qualifications

• License/Certification: Paraprofessional License or Substitute Teaching License (Required)
• Strong behavior management and classroom support skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with educators and related service professionals.
• Flexibility, patience, and a commitment to meeting students’ individual needs.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and resourceful in challenging situations.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Support classroom teachers in delivering instruction and reinforcing concepts aligned with state learning standards.
• Assist students in achieving their Individualized Education Program (IEP), Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP), and transition goals.
• Implement behavior management strategies and follow individualized student support plans.
• Adapt instructional materials and activities to accommodate students’ unique learning needs.
• Engage students through a variety of teaching strategies, hands-on activities, and learning materials.
• Collaborate with teachers, counselors, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, behavior intervention staff, and campus administrators.
• Support students during related services and reinforce recommended activities, including sensory breaks, fine and gross motor exercises, and speech and language activities.
• Collect and maintain accurate student data and behavioral documentation.
• Follow classroom teacher direction, accept feedback, remain flexible, and adhere to school policies and procedures.
• Promote a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment for all students.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Health and dental insurance
• Life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Annual opportunities for salary increases
• On-campus professional development and opportunities for career growth

Join Our Team!

At Parkland Preparatory Academy, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to grow and succeed. We are looking for compassionate, motivated individuals who are passionate about special education and want to make a meaningful difference in students’ lives.

If you’re ready to grow professionally while helping students reach their full potential, we’d love to hear from you!

Please submit your resume to be considered for this opportunity.

To learn more about Parkland Preparatory Academy and explore additional career opportunities, visit www.parklandprep.com.