Lead Paraeducator - Bilingual bei Cunningham Children’s Home

Lead Paraeducator – Caminos Program

Cunningham Children’s Home – Urbana, Illinois

The Caminos Program is seeking a dedicated Lead Paraeducator to help create a safe, therapeutic classroom environment that fosters both academic growth and emotional well-being.

Working under the direction of classroom teacher(s), the Lead Paraeducator will assist in planning, coordinating, instructing, and implementing the classroom’s academic and behavioral programs. The ideal candidate will promote a positive, inclusive learning environment and deliver effective, innovative, and personalized support tailored to each student’s unique needs.

Our program provides a secure and supportive placement for children who have recently migrated to the United States, helping them pursue reunification with family and achieve their educational and immigration goals.

Lead Paraeducator candidates must have a strong understanding of Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) policies and procedures related to the care and supervision of Unaccompanied Children, as well as knowledge of relevant legal issues and best practices for working with this vulnerable population.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required
• ISBE Para Approval – required within six (6) months of hire
• Substitute Teacher License or other educational license preferred (eligible or in progress)
• Classroom teaching principles
• Experience in teaching, behavior management, crisis intervention, de-escalation, and problem-solving
• Ability to work effectively with students with diverse cultural and behavioral/emotional needs
• Fluency in Spanish (oral and written) required

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 11 Paid Holidays
• Paid Leave
• FSA/DCA Options
• Accident, Short-Term Disability, and Critical Illness Coverage
• Retirement Plan with up to 6% Company Match
• Wellness Program
• Eligible Employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

This program is federally funded through a grant at Cunningham Children’s Home and requires collaboration across multiple Caminos and agency departments. Prospective employees must complete a physical and pass an extensive background check.