Signing (ASL) Paraprofessional - Northwestern Illinois Association : Job Details

Northwestern Illinois Association (NIA) is a regional governmental agency dedicated to providing special education support to 68 school districts across Northwestern Illinois. Our mission is to partner with schools to meet the unique needs of students, and we empower our team with professional growth opportunities, comprehensive benefits, and a values-driven culture.

The Signing Paraprofessional works 177 days per year for 7 hours day and earns $16.81-31.84 per hour , depending on experience.

The Signing Paraprofessional assists classroom teachers or other professionals to achieve instructional objectives; assisting students with disabilities with achieving established goals and with personal care and mobility.

Signing Paraprofessional duties:

1. Assist in classroom instruction as directed by the teacher(s).

2. Assist in classroom management as directed by the teacher(s).

3. Assist the students in individualized instruction as directed by the teacher(s).

4. Provide assistance and supervision to students on the playground, in the lunchroom, in

the halls and other places when not in the classroom.

5. Provide assistance and supervision in the movement of students to and from the

transportation provided.

6. Supervise students during lunch period both inside and outside as assigned.

7. Assist in the transportation of students on scheduled field trips as directed.

8. Provide clerical assistance for the teacher(s) including attendance, laminating materials,

making copies, recording lunch count, handling lunch money and other such duties as

assigned.

9. Assist in therapy activities as directed by therapist(s).

10. Perform other duties as assigned by the classroom teacher(s) or program supervisor

Signing Paraprofessional Benefits:

• Group Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance: Available for employees working 0.75 FTE or more, with PPO and HSA options.
• Defined-Benefit Pension Plans: As a local governmental agency, NIA employees who are eligible participate in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), providing a stable, defined-benefit pension that ensures financial security in retirement.
• Learn more about IMRF at (
• Additional Retirement Savings Options: NIA also offers access to 403(b) and 457 retirement savings plans. These are optional, employee-funded plans that provide additional opportunities for tax-advantaged savings, helping you build a more robust retirement strategy.
• Paid Personal Leave and Sick Leave: Based on the number of days worked.
• Telemedicine: Access to 1800 MD telemedicine services at no cost.
• Summer Work Opportunities: Opportunities to pick up additional summer work and earn extra pay.
• Summers Off with Year-Round Pay
• $3,000 Signing Bonus
• Expert Feedback and Evaluation: Receive guidance and evaluation from leaders who understand your expertise
• Ready Access to Equipment and Testing Materials
• Ongoing Professional Development: Enhance your knowledge and skills for school-based services
• Collaborative Environment: Engage in monthly meetings, roundtable discussions, and collaboration time with colleagues
• Regular 1:1 Check-Ins: Stay connected with your leaders through regular check-ins and team meetings
• Mission-Driven: We are deeply committed to partnering with schools to meet the unique needs of students, making a real difference in their lives every day.
• Leadership in Education: Serving 68 school districts across Northern Illinois, NIA is recognized as a leader in providing exceptional special education support.
• Innovation: We continuously improve our services and embrace new technologies to enhance education and meet the evolving needs of our students.
• Employee-Focused: We invest in your growth with professional development opportunities, a supportive work environment, and recognition of your contributions.
• Quality of Life: Live and work in Northern Illinois, known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant communities, and easy access to Chicago.

1. Must hold a Paraprofessional license issued by the ISBE.

2. Must have basic sign language skills.

Compensation details: 16.81-31.84 Hourly Wage

PI4619861da50b-25403-#######3