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First Grade Teaching Assistant Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

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First Grade Teaching Assistant information

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How much do first grade teaching assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for first grade teaching assistant in Park Ridge, IL is $15.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a first grade teaching assistant do?

A First Grade Teaching Assistant supports the classroom teacher by helping students with their work, preparing learning materials, supervising children, and assisting with classroom management. They may work with small groups or individual students who need extra help, and often assist in creating a positive and safe classroom environment. Their role is vital in ensuring that all students receive the attention and support they need to succeed academically and socially.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first grade teaching assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Grade Teaching Assistant, you need a solid understanding of early childhood development, basic instructional techniques, and often a high school diploma or associate degree. Familiarity with classroom technology, educational software, and learning management systems is typically required. Patience, strong communication, and a nurturing attitude are essential soft skills for supporting young students and collaborating with lead teachers. These skills and qualities are crucial for fostering a positive learning environment and ensuring effective support for both students and teachers.

What are some common challenges faced by first grade teaching assistants, and how can they be managed?

First Grade Teaching Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing a classroom with diverse learning needs and maintaining students’ attention throughout the day. Balancing support for the lead teacher while responding to individual student questions can also be demanding. Effective communication, flexibility, and patience are key to navigating these challenges. Building strong relationships with students and collaborating closely with the lead teacher can help create a positive and productive classroom environment.

What is the difference between First Grade Teaching Assistant vs Kindergarten Teaching Assistant?

AspectFirst Grade Teaching AssistantKindergarten Teaching Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer early childhood education certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires early childhood education certification
Work EnvironmentAssists in first grade classrooms, supporting literacy, numeracy, and classroom activitiesSupports preschool or kindergarten classrooms, focusing on early childhood development and play-based learning
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in elementary schools, assisting first-grade teachersUsed in preschools and kindergartens, assisting early childhood educators

Both roles involve supporting young children's learning, but First Grade Teaching Assistants focus on early elementary education, while Kindergarten Teaching Assistants work with preschoolers and kindergarteners, emphasizing early childhood development and foundational skills.

Is being a first grade teaching assistant a stressful job?

Being a first grade teaching assistant can be stressful due to managing young children's behavior, supporting classroom activities, and meeting educational goals. The role often requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle unpredictable situations in a busy classroom environment.

What are popular job titles related to First Grade Teaching Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL?

For First Grade Teaching Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Grade Teaching Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for First Grade Teaching Assistant jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for First Grade Teaching Assistant jobs?

Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most First Grade Teaching Assistant job openings:

Special Education Teaching Assistant - Middle School

Wheaton Warrenville Unit School District 200

Warrenville, IL • On-site

$16.81/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Support Staff/Teaching Assistant - Special Education
Date Posted:
7/13/2026
Location:
Hubble Middle SchoolHours/Day: 6.5 (full-time)
Work days/year: 178
2025-2026 School Year Hourly rate determined by CEA collective bargaining agreement.
Starting Hourly Rate: Grade LTA, $16.81 base hourly rate
$18.81 (if assigned to a high needs classroom)
$22.81 (if assigned to a high needs classroom and completion of a 40-hour training program for the Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) through Relias Academy).
Training information can be found
at https://reliasacademy.com/rls/store/courses/registered-behavior-technician-series-v-2/_/A-product-p560606
Medical Insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield HM0 80/20 cost share
Dental Insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield 80/20 cost share
Vision Insurance: VSP 100% employee cost

Position: Special Education Teaching Assistant (Middle School Level)
Reports to: Classroom Teacher/ Building Principal
Summary of Position: The Special Education Aide assists teachers in meeting the needs of special education students. The primary focus is to assist and enhance the educational process of students with disabilities in both instructional and non-instructional activities.
LICENSURE:
The State of Illinois requires Special Education Teaching Assistants to have one of the following:
  • Current Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
  • Current Illinois Substitute Teaching License
  • Current Illinois Educator License with Stipulations Endorsed-Paraprofessional Educator (If you do not already hold a Teaching/Substitute License):
    • The requirements are: Associate degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution; 60 semester hours of coursework from a regionally accredited institution; High school diploma, or equivalent + 480 or higher on the ETS Parapro test; High school diploma, or equivalent + 4 or higher on the ACT WorkKeys Applied Math and Workplace Documents?
  • Current Illinois Short Term Approval (STA) - Paraprofessional:
    • The requirements are: Minimum Age - 19 years old, Application in ELIS ($50 application fee), Proof of High School Graduation - copy of diploma, copy of transcript showing graduation date, GED, etc
    • For more information on how to apply to obtain the STA please reference the attached file.
If you have any question regarding obtaining a Licensure please contact:
DuPage Regional Office of Education, Licensure Division
421 N. County Farm Road Wheaton, IL 60187
630-407-5800 cert@dupageroe.org

ADDITIONAL JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Have the ability to work effectively with children
Job Requirements:
  • Have the ability to work effectively with children.
  • Have the ability to function within the framework of the school environment.
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Working knowledge of:
  • Child guidance principles and practices.
  • Behavior management and positive reinforcement.
  • Classroom procedures and appropriate conduct.
  • Basic record keeping methods.
  • Mechanical lifting/positioning devices.
Typical Duties:
  • Assist with providing a variety of activities for a balanced program of instruction, giving students opportunity to observe, question and investigate.
  • Reinforce information following a lesson.
  • Works with students individually or in small groups in academic studies, basic life skills and other assigned instruction.
  • Implements behavior modification plans and procedures designed for individual students when necessary.
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding students.
  • Maintain positive relationships with all students, school staff and parents.
  • Observes and records student's progress.
  • Assists individual or groups of students during activities including lunch and getting children safely on and off bus.
  • Assist with hygiene and toileting activities which might include transferring and lifting students. Sanitize classroom and equipment using approved materials.
Physical Ability:
While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch and crawl. The employee will experience occasional lifting and or moving up to 100 lbs, such as lifting a child from the floor. The employee must be able to push/pull items up to 100 lbs., such as children in wheelchairs.
Work Environment:
Hazards- Potential exposure to communicable disease and contact with blood and other body fluids; potential exposure to physical injury from aggressive behavior.
Attachment(s):
  • STA PARA Info and Instructions Aug22.pdf