Bilingual Teacher Assistant

Job Title: Bilingual Paraprofessional (Spanish/English)

Location: Beach Park District 3

Reports To: Building Principal & Director of EL/Bilingual Programs

I. Position Summary

The Bilingual Paraprofessional supports the instruction of English Learners (ELs) by providing primary language support and English language development under the direction of a certified teacher. This role involves working in Dual Language, TBE, or ESL settings to ensure students meet grade-level academic standards while developing biliteracy.

II. Required Qualifications & Licensure

To comply with Illinois state law and District 3 standards, all candidates must possess:

• ISBE Paraprofessional License (ELS-PARA): * Must hold a valid Illinois Educator License with Stipulations endorsed for Paraprofessionals.
  • Requirement: At least 60 semester hours of college credit OR a high school diploma with a passing score on the ETS ParaPro or ACT WorkKeys assessment.
• Bilingual Proficiency: * High-level fluency in both Spanish and English (written and oral).
  • Ability to translate classroom materials and provide real-time interpretation for parent-teacher interactions.
• Clearance: Must pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check and physical/TB screening.

III. Key Performance Responsibilities

• Instructional Support: Facilitate small group or one-on-one "RTI" (Response to Intervention) sessions in both Spanish and English to reinforce concepts taught by the lead teacher.
• Bridge the Biliteracy Gap: Support students in our "Late Exit" and "Developmental Bilingual" models, helping them master academic subjects in their native language while transitioning to English.
• Parental Engagement: Assist the Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee (BPAC) with community outreach and help foster strong home-school connections for our Spanish-speaking families.
• Progress Monitoring: Assist teachers in recording behavioral data (PBIS) and academic progress for students with IEPs or 504 plans within the bilingual setting.
• Supervision: Monitor students during non-instructional times (lunch, recess, bus arrival/dismissal), ensuring a safe and inclusive environment.

IV. District 3 "Culture Fit" & Soft Skills

• Collaborative Spirit: You'll be working within PLC (Professional Learning Communities). We look for "team-first" individuals who share ideas and take initiative.
• Cultural Competence: A deep respect for the diverse backgrounds of our Beach Park community.
• Adaptability: The ability to pivot between different grade levels (K-8) or instructional needs as the student population shifts.

V. Salary & Benefits

• Competitive Hourly Rate: Based on the current collective bargaining agreement (ranges from $18.05 to $21.70) depending on experience and education).
• Full Benefits: Includes medical, dental, and vision insurance; IMRF (Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund) pension participation; and paid sick/personal days.
• Work Days: 176 work days (matching teacher workdays); 182 paid days, 6 paid holidays, and 20 unpaid not in attendance days
• Work Day Length: 7 hours and 35 minutes (matching teacher workdays)