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!

Frequently cited statistics show that women and underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the necessary skills and abilities. Lawrence Hall encourages you to apply even if you do not have experience in all areas of essential functions. We look forward to your application.

This position meets the FLSA requirements for Non-Exempt

Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V