The Stepping Stones Group is seeking a compassionate and motivated Facilitator / Paraprofessional to join our full-time school-based team in Rockford, IL. This rewarding role provides the opportunity to make a direct impact on students' academic, behavioral, social, and emotional development while helping them succeed in the classroom and beyond.As a valued member of the educational team, you will work closely with teachers, special education staff, and related service providers to support students in achieving their individual learning goals. This position is ideal for professionals who are passionate about education, student support, and creating positive learning experiences.QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent requiredAssociate degree, bachelor's degree, or relevant educational experience preferredPrevious experience working with children or students preferredExperience supporting students with special needs, behavioral needs, or learning challenges is a plusStrong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skillsAbility to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary teamKey ResponsibilitiesProvide classroom support to students in general education and special education settingsAssist students with academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needsImplement teacher-directed instructional activities and interventionsSupport student engagement, participation, and independence throughout the school dayAssist with classroom management and positive behavior support strategiesCollaborate with teachers, special education staff, therapists, and families as neededMonitor student progress and document observations when requiredSupport students during transitions, lunch, recess, and other school activitiesMaintain confidentiality and adhere to school and district policiesBenefits and PerksCompetitive compensationComprehensive benefits package for eligible employeesHealth and wellness programsProfessional development and training opportunities401(k) retirement planEmployee referral bonus programSupportive and collaborative school environmentOpportunities for career growth within education and student servicesAbout The Stepping Stones GroupAt The Stepping Stones Group, we are dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential by providing high-quality educational and support services. We value our team members and provide the resources, training, and support needed to make a meaningful difference in students' lives.Join a mission-driven organization where your work contributes to student success, growth, and lifelong learning.Apply today to become part of a team committed to transforming lives through education and student support services.
The Stepping Stones GroupMake a Difference Every Day Empowering Students, Enriching Futures!School-Based Paraprofessional | Strategic Substitute and Standard Assignments | K-12 Special Education | Multiple OpeningsAbout the OpportunityAre you passionate about supporting students and helping them reach their full potential? The Stepping Stones Group is seeking dedicated Paraprofessionals to join our team during the 2026-2027 school year. This is more than a job. It's a chance to make a meaningful impact while working alongside educators and support teams, helping students build the academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and life skills they need to succeed. We have multiple openings.Some roles are standard assignments in one classroom. Others are strategic substitute roles, where you move between schools during the week to cover classrooms where students need support. Either way, you'll work with teachers and special education staff to provide 1:1, 2:1, or classroom support.Pay: $22-$23 per hourSchedule: Monday-Friday, school-day hours, up to about 32 hours per week (up to 6 hours per day plus a 30-minute unpaid break). Hours vary by assignment, and strategic substitutes may not have an assignment every day.Setting: Onsite, K-12, 1:1, 2:1, and classroom support in general education and special education settingsSites: Strategic substitutes travel to different schools during the weekStart date: Immediate, through the end of the 2026-27 school year (late May)Employment type: W-2Location: Shared with candidates during the application processWhat You'll DoProvide 1:1, 2:1, and classroom-wide support, or cover classrooms as a strategic substituteReinforce teacher-led lessons, instructional activities, and classroom routinesProvide emotional support and general academic support, including help with assignmentsProvide behavioral support and intervention, and use positive reinforcement and proactive strategiesSupport students with daily needs, which may include mobility, feeding, toileting, and diaperingCollect and document data as directed by the teacher and school teamSupport implementation of IEP accommodations and behavior plans as directedAssist students during transitions, arrival, dismissal, lunch, and recess as assignedCollaborate with teachers, special education staff, therapists, and administratorsTravel between school sites during the week if you're a substituteMaintain accurate documentation and student records, and maintain confidentialityHelp maintain a safe, structured, positive, and inclusive learning environmentMinimum QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalentBehavioral or special education experienceState paraprofessional certification (short-term or long-term), in hand Ability to complete district fingerprinting and required formsReliable transportationOpenness to substitute assignments and travel between school sites, if you take a strategic sub roleAbility to accept an offer within 48 hoursStrong communication and interpersonal skillsAbility to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and positive working relationshipsAuthorization to work in the United States; English proficiencyYou'll Thrive in This Role If You Are Open To:Working as a strategic substitute for the remainder of the school year, reporting to different schools during the weekWorking with students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), emotional disturbance (ED), other health impairments (OHI), and significant behavioral needsWorking with medically fragile studentsProviding toileting and diapering assistance if neededWorking in both general education and special education settingsWorking with students of all ages and all caseloadsAdjusting your caseload or school site based on district needsWorking fully onsite and in personPreferred QualificationsSchool-based or special education experienceExperience supporting students with disabilities and behavioral needsExperience with behavior support strategies or applied behavior analysis (ABA)Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification, or willingness to obtain itCPR and First Aid certificationCPI, Safety-Care, or other crisis prevention and de-escalation trainingAssociate's or bachelor's degree in education, psychology, child development, or a related fieldRelated Experience We ValueExperience as a Paraprofessional, Substitute Paraprofessional, Instructional Aide, Teacher Assistant, Educational Assistant, Classroom Aide, Special Education Assistant, Behavior Technician, Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), Student Support Assistant, or Direct Support Professional (DSP) is highly valued.Why Candidates Choose This RoleGain hands-on experience in education and student support across different schools and classroomsBuild experience for careers in teaching, special education, psychology, counseling, social work, and healthcareFollow a predictable school schedule, with weekends, evenings, holidays, and school breaks typically offWork alongside experienced teachers, therapists, and educational professionalsMove quickly: no district interview is requiredDevelop professional skills in instructional support, behavior management, and student engagementWhy You'll Love Working With UsCompetitive pay of $22-$23 per hourHealth and wellness benefitsMedical, dental, and vision insurance and 401(k) for eligible employeesProfessional development and training opportunitiesContinuing education resourcesEmployee referral bonus programResponsive and supportive leadershipOpportunities for career growth and advancementMeaningful work that directly impacts students and communitiesPhysical RequirementsAbility to remain active throughout the school day, including frequent standing, walking, kneeling, bending, crouching, and repositioningAbility to lift, move, or assist safelyAbility to respond quickly to student needs and classroom situationsAbility to assist students with mobility, toileting, and daily living activities, if neededAdditional requirements may vary by assignmentWhat Makes Someone Successful in This Role?Successful Paraprofessionals are patient, dependable, adaptable, and student-focused. They adjust quickly to new classrooms and schools, collaborate effectively with school teams, build positive relationships with students, and create supportive learning environments that promote confidence, independence, and success.About The Stepping Stones GroupWe believe every child deserves exceptional support for their academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth. We partner with schools across the country to provide high-quality educational services that help students build confidence, develop new skills, and reach meaningful milestones, and we give our team members the support, training, and resources to thrive.Ready to make an impact? Apply today. Please tell us whether you're open to a strategic substitute role and to staying a substitute for the rest of the school year, share your behavioral or special education experience, and confirm your reliable transportation. If you're selected, we'll ask you to accept your offer within 48 hours.
Step Into a Rewarding Career with The Stepping Stones Group!Are you passionate about helping students overcome challenges, achieve their goals, and build confidence in the classroom? Do you want a career where every day provides an opportunity to make a meaningful difference? If so, we'd love to meet you.The Stepping Stones Group is seeking dedicated Special Education Teachers to join our team in Rockford, IL. This is a full-time opportunity to work alongside a supportive team while making a lasting impact on the lives of students and families.Qualifications:Master's degree in Special Education from an accredited institutionValid LBS1 endorsement, as well as Secondary (MS/HS) endorsementsExperience working with students in a school setting, particularly those with special needs - Students on all on the Autism SpectrumWhy Choose The Stepping Stones Group?Empower Students by helping them achieve their full potential through individualized instruction, encouragement, and supportSupport & Growth through collaboration, mentorship, and opportunities for continued professional developmentWhat We Offer:Competitive Pay, Comprehensive Benefits, and Health & Wellness Stipends that support your life both inside and outside of workRelocation Assistance available for professionals seeking new opportunitiesSpread Pay Plan providing consistent income throughout the yearProfessional Development Stipends to support continuing education and career advancement401(k) Retirement Plan to help you build a secure financial futureOnline Resources including webinars, instructional strategies, educational resources, and continuing education opportunitiesTravel Opportunities available for professionals interested in exploring new locationsReferral Program rewarding you for connecting talented professionals with our teamA workplace where you are supported, respected, and encouraged to do your best work every dayAt The Stepping Stones Group, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. Our mission is to create meaningful educational experiences that help students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally while providing our educators with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to excel.Ready to make an impact? Join The Stepping Stones Group today and help us build brighter futures, one student at a time.