Who We AreLawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and communities impacted by trauma.Lawrence Hall fosters a culture built upon the principles of the Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) model and the core values of Respect, Empowerment, Safety, and Teamwork. Together, these principles are embedded throughout our trauma-informed philosophy and guide how we serve youth and families, support one another as colleagues, and partner with our community.Our Therapeutic Day School serves CPS-referred youth ages 5-22 with emotional, intellectual, and learning challenges. Through personalized, IEP-driven instruction and therapeutic supports, we help students build academic, social-emotional, and life skills that prepare them for long-term educational and personal success.About the RoleAs a Teacher Assistant, you will work alongside classroom teachers to support students academically, socially, and emotionally in a trauma-informed educational setting. This role helps create a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment while providing individualized support to students with diverse educational and behavioral needs.This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working directly with youth, supporting student growth, and making a meaningful impact in the classroom each day. Successful candidates are patient, collaborative, and committed to helping students succeed both in school and in life.What You'll DoSupport teachers in delivering classroom instruction, implementing lesson plans, and facilitating daily learning activities.Encourage positive social skills, communication, and emotional regulation using trauma-informed and relationship-based approaches.Assist with behavior management and crisis intervention strategies, including TCI-approved interventions when necessary.Support students with daily routines, personal care needs, and life-skills development.Maintain accurate documentation, collect behavioral and academic data, and assist with classroom recordkeeping.Collaborate with teachers, families, caregivers, and multidisciplinary team members to support student progress and success.Who We're Looking ForRequiredHigh School Diploma or equivalent.Current Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) Paraprofessional License.Minimum of two years of experience working with adolescents or at-risk youth in a school or educational setting.Must be at least 21 years of age.Valid Illinois driver's license.Ability to successfully complete required background checks and drug screenings.No history of child abuse or neglect.Ability to safely assist students and participate in physical intervention procedures when necessary.PreferredExperience working in a therapeutic day school, special education, alternative education, or behavioral health setting.Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and behavior intervention strategies.Experience supporting students with emotional, behavioral, developmental, or learning challenges.Previous Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) training or certification.Position Requirements & Work EnvironmentWork Location: Lawrence Hall Therapeutic Day School, 4833 N. Francisco Ave., Chicago, IL.Schedule: Full-time onsite position, Monday through Friday during regular school hours.Physical Requirements: Ability to kneel, stand, bend, lift, and actively support students throughout the school day, including participation in approved physical interventions when necessary.Work Environment: School-based setting serving youth with diverse educational, behavioral, emotional, and developmental needs.Other Position Requirements: Participation in required professional development, trauma-informed care training, and Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) certification.Compensation and BenefitsWe care about the well-being of our employees and are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package that includes:Salary: $18.85-$21.25 per hour. Compensation is based on a set hourly rate and may vary based on education and experience.Average of 17-25 days PTO + 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) for Medical and Dependent Care.Pre-tax commuter benefits for 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 ApplySubmit 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.Following job offer acceptance, all new hires are required to complete a background check through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Individuals who have lived outside of Illinois may also be subject to out-of-state checks, which can take up to eight weeks to process. While these checks are pending, candidates should continue completing all other pre-boarding requirements. Employment may begin once all pre-boarding steps are complete and DCFS clearance has been received.