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Education Policy Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

Toddler Teacher Assistant

Normal, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Adhere to all Cadence Education policies and procedures outlined in the Employee Handbook. * Participate in required meetings, trainings, and professional development , which may occur outside of ...

Preschool Teacher Assistant

Normal, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Adhere to all Cadence Education policies and procedures outlined in the Employee Handbook. * Participate in required meetings, trainings, and professional development , which may occur outside of ...

Showing results 21-40

Education Policy information

See Normal, IL salary details

$67.9K

$122K

$167.7K

How much do education policy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for education policy in Normal, IL is $122,044.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,800.00 and $148,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is education policy?

Education policy refers to the collection of laws, regulations, and government decisions that shape the education system at local, state, or national levels. It covers issues such as curriculum standards, funding, teacher qualifications, student assessments, and school accountability. Education policy professionals analyze, develop, and advocate for policies aimed at improving educational outcomes and equity. Their work can influence everything from classroom practices to the overall structure of the educational system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in education policy?

To thrive in Education Policy, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of educational systems, and typically a background in public policy, education, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy research platforms, and sometimes certifications like a Master's in Public Policy (MPP) are valuable. Excellent communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills set professionals apart when building consensus and advocating for change. These skills are essential for effectively shaping policy decisions that impact educational outcomes and ensuring policies are both evidence-based and equitable.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in education policy roles?

Professionals in education policy often encounter challenges such as balancing the interests of multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, educators, parents, and students. They must also stay updated with ever-evolving legislation and educational trends, which requires continuous research and adaptability. Navigating bureaucratic processes, advocating for evidence-based reforms, and effectively communicating complex policy recommendations are daily aspects of the role. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and managing tight deadlines are also common, making strong organizational and interpersonal skills essential.

What is the difference between Education Policy vs Education Research?

AspectEducation PolicyEducation Research
Required CredentialsMaster's or higher in Education Policy, Public Policy, or related fieldsMaster's or PhD in Education, Social Sciences, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, advocacy groupsUniversities, research institutions, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsagePolicy formulation, legislative analysis, program developmentData analysis, study design, evidence generation

Education Policy focuses on developing and analyzing policies to improve education systems, often working within government or advocacy groups. Education Research involves conducting studies to generate evidence and insights about educational practices and outcomes, typically within academic or research institutions. While both roles aim to improve education, Policy emphasizes implementation and advocacy, whereas Research centers on evidence and data analysis.

How do you get into education policy?

To pursue a career in education policy, individuals typically earn a bachelor's degree in education, public policy, or a related field, followed by gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles in education organizations or government agencies. Advanced positions often require a master's degree or higher, along with strong analytical, research, and communication skills.

What can I do with a degree in education policy?

A degree in education policy prepares individuals for roles such as education policy analyst, advocate, or administrator, focusing on developing and analyzing educational programs, laws, and regulations. Graduates often work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or think tanks, utilizing skills in research, data analysis, and policy development.

What is a job in education policy?

A job in education policy involves analyzing, developing, and advocating for policies that influence educational systems and practices. Professionals in this field often conduct research, collaborate with government agencies or educational institutions, and use data analysis tools to inform decision-making. Strong communication skills and knowledge of education laws and regulations are essential for success in this role.

What job categories do people searching Education Policy jobs in Normal, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Education Policy jobs in Normal, IL are:

What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Education Policy jobs?

Cities near Normal, IL with the most Education Policy job openings:

Infographic showing various Education Policy job openings in Normal, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,044 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Paraprofessional - Special Education

McLean County Unit District No. 5

Normal, IL โ€ข On-site

$19.48 - $22.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Position Type:
Teaching Assistant
Date Posted:
8/3/2026
Location:
Kingsley Junior High School
Date Available:
Fall 2026
Closing Date:
Open Until Filled
McLean County Unit District No. 5
JOB DESCRIPTION
Position Title: Paraprofessional - Special Education
Location: KJHS
Department: Building Personnel
Reports to: Principal/Assistant Principal
FLSA Class: Non-Exempt
FTE: 1.0
SUMMARY
This position is responsible for working closely with students in a general education classroom with students with learning disabilities, autism, or mild behaviors on a regular basis in an effort to provide them with the support they need to gain full benefit from the District's special education program.
DUTIES
  1. Discusses assigned duties with classroom teachers in order to coordinate instructional efforts.
  2. Prepares lesson materials, bulletin Board displays, exhibits, equipment, and demonstrations as needed.
  3. Presents subject matter to students under the direction and guidance of teachers, using lectures, discussions, or supervised role-playing methods.
  4. Establishes as fully as possible a supportive and sympathetic relationship with the student(s) without fostering or encouraging intense emotional involvement.
  5. Serves as a resource person, if and when requested, to the student personnel evaluation team conferring about one of the students to whom assigned.
  6. Supervises students in classrooms, halls, cafeterias, school yards, and gymnasiums, or on field trips.
  7. Conducts demonstrations to teach such skills as sports, dancing, and handicrafts.
  8. Distributes teaching materials such as textbooks, workbooks, papers, and pencils to students.
  9. Distributes tests and homework assignments, and collect them when they are completed.
  10. Enforces administration policies and rules governing students.
  11. Grades homework and tests, and computes and records results, using answer sheets or electronic marking devices.
  12. Completes required reports in a timely manner.
  13. Teaches socially acceptable behavior, employing techniques such as behavior modification and positive reinforcement.
  14. Works with students with multiple physical, mental, and developmental disabilities.
  15. Is familiar with and uses adaptive equipment including, communication equipment, wheel chairs, adaptive feeding tools, etc.
  16. Assists students with self-care, hygiene, and feeding as necessary.
  17. May be required to perform tasks that students are not able to do, i.e. taking notes, handling materials, holding books, etc.
  18. May work with/handle resistive students.
  19. Serves as the chief source of information and help to any substitute teacher assigned in the absence of the regular teacher.
  20. Maintains a high level of ethical behavior and confidentiality of information about students as is expected of fully licensed teachers.
  21. Assists the classroom teacher in other tasks necessary in maintaining a professional and positive classroom environment, and performs other teacher aide duties as may be assigned by the classroom teacher, administration or Board of Education.

QUALIFICATIONS
  1. Must have a registered license with the Regional Office of Education #17 at the time of hire.
  2. Must have excellent Oral and Written communication skills to work with teachers, education support personnel, building administrators and the general public.
  3. Enforce school regulations and policies in a professional manner.
  4. Ability to maintain good working relationships with fellow employees and pupils.
  5. Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  6. Requires employee to have the ability to push/pull up to 10 lbs.
  7. Must be detailed oriented.

Certification:
Must possess an educator license with stipulations endorsed for paraprofessional educator or professional educator license at the time of hire.
Compensation:
Fully Board Paid Medical, Dental, and Vision available.
Per the 2026-2027 Teaching Assistant Salary Schedule, the starting pay range is $19.48 - $22.40 per hour and is based upon experience.
Apply online at: www.unit5.org
INTERNAL APPLICANTS WANTING TO APPLY SHOULD USE THE INTERNAL APPLICATION