Organization

Chicago Jewish Day School (CJDS)
Chicago, Illinois

Reports to: Inclusion Coordinator
Status: Full-time

About Chicago Jewish Day School

Chicago Jewish Day School is a multi-denominational, progressive Jewish day school serving approximately 235 students from Junior Kindergarten through Grade Eight. Grounded in Jewish values, CJDS offers an integrated, inquiry-based, and experiential curriculum that emphasizes excellence in both Judaic and General Studies.

CJDS is a leader in fostering togetherness, cooperation, and respect across all Jewish denominations. We prepare our students to become thoughtful learners, ethical individuals, and engaged members of the Jewish community—and our work is made possible through strong partnerships with families, donors, alumni, and community supporters.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and dedicated Paraeducator to support students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) within a vibrant and inclusive learning environment. This individual will be part of a dynamic team implementing inclusive education best practices within a warm and engaged community. Paraeducators will support students in both inclusive general education and resource classroom environments. Strong emphasis is placed on ongoing professional development and growth opportunities for paraeducators, including training by national experts in inclusive education. This is an ideal opportunity for individuals who are passionate about supporting diverse learners and want to be part of an innovative and growing inclusive education program in the heart of the city.

Responsibilities

• Work 1:1 with individual students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including educational, social, behavioral, and personal care needs
• Establish a positive and supportive relationship with the student which encourages independent functioning
• Assist in all areas of the classroom as needed
• Exercise sound judgment in making decisions regarding the safety and welfare of students
• Encourage a positive learning environment in each setting within the school
• Maintain confidentiality of student information
• Support established classroom and behavior management procedures
• Perform other duties within the school that may be assigned by supervisor
• Communicate on a regular basis with the student’s educational team
• Display a positive and collaborative style
• Demonstrate professionalism, including good attendance and timeliness

Qualifications

Required

• Have or be eligible to apply for an Illinois State Board of Education Paraprofessional License
• Training and/or lived experience with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)
• Enthusiasm about working in a team; a collaborative spirit

Preferred

• Minimum of one year of experience in Special Education
• Experience working with elementary and/or middle school aged children
• Minimum of one year of experience in Childcare

Benefits & Compensation

CJDS offers a competitive compensation package, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees (30+ hours/week), including:

• 100% employer-paid health and short-term disability insurance
• Paid time off in accordance with Chicago ordinances, plus Jewish and Federal holidays
• Tuition remission for eligible children after two years of service
• Optional dental, vision, life, and disability insurance