Palos 118 Now Hiring Paraprofessional Classroom Aides

Paraprofessionals play an essential role in Palos 118 schools. Under the supervision of a licensed teacher, paraprofessionals support learning in the classroom including tutoring students, assist with classroom management, and organizing instructional materials.

Palos 118 paraprofessionals receive a competitive wage, comprehensive medical and dental benefits, membership in the State retirement plan, and get summers off—great for parents with students in the District. Apply online today HERE.

Candidates can obtain paraprofessional licensing two ways:

Option 1: Obtain a 5-year paraprofessional educator license

Requirements

• Must be at least 19 years of age to serve students in grades PK-22 (Pre-Kindergarten through age 22)

• Individuals who are 18 years of age may qualify for the ELS-Paraprofessional to serve students PK-8 by meeting the requirements outlined below:
• Must meet one of the following requirements:
  • Associate’s degree or higher
  • 60 semester hours of coursework
  • High School Diploma or GED and a score of 460 or higher on the ETS Parapro
  • High School Diploma or GED and the following scores on the ACT Workkeys:
    • Applied Mathematics/Applied Math (with a score of 4)
    • Reading for information/Workplace Documents (with a score of 4)

Key Details

• Valid for 5 fiscal years
• Must work under the direct supervision of a licensed teacher
• No limit on days worked
• May be renewed with payment of registration fees

Option 2: Obtain Short Term Approval Requirements for Paraprofessional Classroom Aides

Requirements

• High school diploma (or equivalent), or higher
• At least 19 years of age to serve students in grades PK-22.
• While working on the approval, educator must be fulfilling requirements for the full license.

Key Details

• Valid for 3 fiscal years
• Not renewable
• No limit on days worked
• Short-Term Paraprofessional Approvals are available for application until June 30, 2025, and may not be renewed.

Read more on the Illinois State Board of Education website, https://www.isbe.net/Pages/paraprofessional-educator.aspx