Teacher Assistant
Who we are
Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and neighborhoods affected by lasting trauma.
Our Therapeutic Day School serves CPS-referred youth ages 5-22 with emotional, intellectual, or learning challenges. We provide personalized, IEP-driven instruction paired with therapeutic arts to promote skill mastery and engagement. With a 90%+ graduation rate and multiple awards, we prepare students for academic and career success.
About the Role
Be a steady presence for youth as they grow, learn, and overcome challenges. As a Teacher Assistant, you'll work alongside teachers in the classroom to support academic learning, promote positive behavior, and help students develop life skills. This role is hands-on, rewarding, and impactful - giving you the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of students ages 5-21.
Key responsibilities:
- Support teachers in delivering instruction and managing classroom activities.
- Encourage positive social skills and communication using trauma-informed strategies.
- Assist with behavior management, including TCI-approved interventions and safe physical restraint when necessary.
- Help students with daily routines, hygiene, and personal care.
- Collect data, maintain documentation, and assist with classroom reports.
- Collaborate with families, staff, and caregivers to share student progress and support learning outcomes.
Who we're looking for
- High School Diploma and current Para Professional License from the Illinois State Board of Education.
- Minimum 2 years of experience working with adolescents or at-risk youth in a school or educational setting.
- Minimum age: 21.
- Valid Illinois Driver's License.
- Ability to pass background check and drug screen; no history of child abuse or neglect.
- Physical ability to kneel, stand, and assist students safely during classroom activities, including physical restraint when needed.
Additional Information
This full-time, on-site position is located at our Therapeutic Day School at 4833 N Francisco Ave, Monday to Friday, typical school hours. Exposure to youth with diverse needs, including behavioral, mental health, and hygiene challenges. Participation in required trainings, including trauma-informed and TCI certification.
Compensation, Benefits & Perks
We care about the well-being of our employees and are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package that includes:
- Base hourly rate of $20.91/hour, based on experience.
- 7+ weeks of vacation + 9 holidays
- Medical insurance - HMO and PPO options
- Dental insurance - HMO and PPO options
- Vision insurance
- 401(k) with up to 5% employer match and auto-vesting
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) - Medical and Dependent Care
- Pre-tax Commuter benefits - Parking and Transit
- 100% employer-paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
- Voluntary Life Insurance for Employees, Spouses, and Children
- Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
- 100% employer- paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and life resources
- Wellness Reimbursement Program
- Employee Referral Bonus up to $1,500
- Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for licensed employees
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness
How to Apply
Submit your resume here. We look forward to learning more about you!