Special Education Teaching Assistant- High School

About the Role

The Special Education Teaching Assistant at Wheaton Warrenville South High School plays a vital role in supporting the educational journey of students with disabilities. Working under the guidance of the Classroom Teacher and Building Principal, this position is dedicated to enhancing the instructional and non-instructional experience for every student. The primary focus is to assist teachers in meeting diverse needs, ensuring that students have the opportunity to observe, question, and investigate within a balanced program of instruction.

This role goes beyond academic support; it involves fostering positive relationships with students, staff, and parents while maintaining strict confidentiality. Assistants work individually or in small groups to reinforce lessons, implement behavior modification plans, and support basic life skills. The position also includes essential daily support during activities such as recess, lunch, and safe transportation, as well as assisting with hygiene and toileting activities when necessary.

A Day in the Life

Your day will be dynamic and physically active, requiring the ability to sit, stand, walk, and occasionally lift or transfer students up to 100 lbs. You will function within the framework of a busy school environment, utilizing behavior management and positive reinforcement techniques to guide student conduct. Whether you are helping a student with a wheelchair, sanitizing classroom equipment, or recording student progress, your presence ensures a safe and supportive learning atmosphere. The role may involve exposure to communicable diseases or potential physical injury from aggressive behavior, requiring a high level of situational awareness and care.

Compensation and Benefits

This is a full-time position (6.5 hours/day, 178 days/year) for the 2026-2027 school year. The starting hourly rate is determined by the CEA collective bargaining agreement, with a base rate of $17.23. Additional incentives are available: $19.23 for assignments in high-needs classrooms, and $23.23 for those in high-needs classrooms who complete a 40-hour Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) training program through Relias Academy.

Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield and VSP, with varying cost-share structures for employees.

Licensure and Qualifications

To be eligible for this position, candidates must hold one of the following current Illinois licenses or approvals:

• Professional Educator License (PEL)
• Substitute Teaching License
• Educator License with Stipulations Endorsed-Paraprofessional Educator (requires an Associate degree or higher, or specific test scores)
• Short Term Approval (STA) - Paraprofessional (requires age 19+, high school graduation, and application fee)

Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work effectively with children, possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, and have a working knowledge of computers, child guidance principles, and classroom procedures.

Contact and Application

For specific questions regarding obtaining licensure, please contact the DuPage Regional Office of Education, Licensure Division at 630-407-5800 or cert@dupageroe.org. Applications should be submitted through the Community Unit School District 200 hiring portal.