Assistant Teacher

We are seeking a Teacher's Assistant for Thresholds High School to help youth experiencing mental illness. The Teacher's Assistant provides aid and support to the classroom teacher(s). They will not regularly be left in charge of a class, group of students, or individual, but may work one-on-one or with a class in the presence and under the supervision of a certified teacher.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Works with the teacher to develop curriculum and daily lesson plan and uses the lessons/materials provided by the teacher to assist in teaching the lesson.
• Works with the whole class for lessons, as well as works individually with students to maintain a positive atmosphere in the classroom.
• Works cooperatively with other Teacher Aides and/or volunteers.
• Creates and makes copies of instructional materials as needed. Distributes teaching materials and stockroom supplies.
• Performs and participates in crisis intervention in accordance to TCI (Therapeutic Crisis Intervention) and Thresholds standards. Models best practices to other staff. Performs and supervises physical management when necessary.
• Participates in behavior management in the classroom and program. Supervises breaks and lunch times in regards to the school day.

MARGINAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• May be required to take attendance, help with attendance reporting, issue and mark point cards, and assist with anecdotal summary notes of students. This includes notification to supervisors or co-workers of any difficulties with particular students or other program members, and call upon them, as well as any other staff to intervene if necessary.
• May be required to assist with homework or grading.

REQUIREMENTS

• Must be 20 years of age or older
• Paraprofessional Certification through Illinois State Board of Education: Educator License with Stipulations (ELS)
• To be able to perform Therapeutic Crisis Intervention therapeutic restraint techniques, which require moderate exertion, being able to lift 40 pounds, and the mobility to lower self to a kneeling position on the floor. This training is provided and required by Thresholds.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Education
• Previous experience working with high school aged children dealing with mental illness

What sets Thresholds apart:

• Competitive pay - Base Rate: $21.50 - 23.75 per hour
  
  
  
  
  • Subject to increase based on education and experience
  
  
  
  
• Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation)
• Dental insurance, vision insurance,4 medical insurance plans
• 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match
• Robust employee assistance program (EAP)
• Mileage reimbursement
• Public service loan forgiveness
• Supervision for clinical licensure at no cost (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC)
• Reimbursement for professional licensure and license renewal

Thresholds is a mission-driven agency with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We foster an environment where all feel valued and respected, a place where every employee can be themselves, thrive, and support the agency's mission. Click here to learn more.

One of the oldest and largest community mental health organizations in Illinois, we pride ourselves in being a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace and one of Chicago's 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For, several years in a row.