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Learning Assistant Jobs in Grayslake, IL (NOW HIRING)

Teacher Assistant, Head Start

Beach Park, IL ยท On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

As a leader in early learning and care, we scale our deep expertise across program, policy and ... The Teacher Assistant works closely with the Preschool Certified Teacher to create a nurturing and ...

As a leader in early learning and care, we scale our deep expertise across program, policy and ... The Teacher Assistant works closely with the Preschool Certified Teacher to create a nurturing and ...

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Learning Assistant information

What is a learning assistant?

Learning Assistants are individuals who support students and instructors in educational settings, often in classrooms or labs. They help facilitate group activities, answer student questions, and provide additional guidance to enhance learning. Learning Assistants are typically undergraduate students trained to use active learning techniques to improve student engagement and understanding. Their role is to create a positive and supportive learning environment, working alongside faculty to help students succeed.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a learning assistant?

To thrive as a Learning Assistant, you generally need a solid understanding of educational principles, subject matter expertise, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education. Familiarity with classroom technology, learning management systems (LMS), and digital collaboration tools is often important. Exceptional communication, patience, and the ability to motivate and support students are critical soft skills. These competencies ensure effective support of teachers and students, fostering an inclusive and productive learning environment.

How do learning assistants typically collaborate with teachers and students in the classroom?

Learning Assistants work closely with teachers to support lesson delivery, often helping to facilitate group activities, provide one-on-one assistance to students, and manage classroom dynamics. They play a key role in reinforcing concepts presented by the teacher, answering student questions, and identifying individuals who may need additional help. Collaboration also involves regular communication with the teaching staff to discuss student progress and adjust instructional strategies as needed. This teamwork ensures a supportive and effective learning environment for all students.

What is the difference between Learning Assistant vs Teaching Assistant?

AspectLearning AssistantTeaching Assistant
Required CredentialsOften undergraduate or graduate students, sometimes with specific trainingVaries; may include certifications or student status
Work EnvironmentAcademic settings, supporting active learning in classroomsClassrooms, labs, or online, assisting teachers or professors
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, primarily colleges and universitiesSchools, colleges, universities, and training programs
Common Search & ComparisonLearning Assistant vs Teaching Assistant

Learning Assistants typically support active learning in higher education settings, often as students themselves, focusing on peer support and engagement. Teaching Assistants may have more formal instructional duties, including grading and classroom management. While both roles assist in educational environments, Learning Assistants emphasize peer-led support, whereas Teaching Assistants often work directly under faculty supervision to facilitate instruction.

How much do learning assistants get paid?

Learning assistants typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, depending on the institution, location, and experience. Some roles may also include stipends or academic credit, and the position often requires strong communication and organizational skills.

What cities near Grayslake, IL are hiring for Learning Assistant jobs?

Cities near Grayslake, IL with the most Learning Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Learning Assistant job openings in Grayslake, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Teacher Assistant, Head Start

Start Early

Beach Park, IL โ€ข On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
We are hiring in Beach Park, IL.
Start Early is an energized, future-focused organization devoted to providing quality early learning and care across the country.
Our desire to close the opportunity gap and build early learning experiences for our youngest learners guides everything we do. As a leader in early learning and care, we scale our deep expertise across program, policy and research through partnerships across the country.
We are recruiting individuals who want to join us in this mission and share a commitment to our core values of appreciation & respect, empowerment, diversity, excellence, learning and communication.
Become part of our rewarding, mission-driven culture! We want our employees to feel empowered, motivated, energized, and passionate about the work they do!
The Teacher Assistant works closely with the Preschool Certified Teacher to create a nurturing and stimulating environment that supports the developmental needs of young children in accordance with federal, state, and local standards for 3-5 year olds. The ideal candidate is passionate about early childhood education and committed to fostering positive self-images and experiences of success for all children.
As part of our Teaching Team you will:
  • Collaborate: Work closely with the Preschool Certified Teacher and Team to develop, maintain and monitor individual child education binders, ensuring all confidential information is protected. Follow Education timeline in accordance with program regulations.
  • Inspire Learning: Assist in creating a vibrant classroom environment based on ECERS guidelines and integrate CLASS concepts into daily teacher child interactions and routines, aligning with the IELDSs/Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework.
  • Lesson Planning: Active participation in lesson planning sessions and assisting with the implementation of the researched-based Creative Curriculum practices.
  • Tailor Learning: Complete required program documentation and submit to Preschool Certified Teacher. Utilize child assessments, screening results and observation data to design developmentally appropriate experiences that promote social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development for every child.
  • Create Lasting Connections: Schedule and conduct two parent-teacher conferences and home visits each year, building strong relationships and partnerships with families to support children's growth. Participate in Family Child Reviews.
  • Inclusive Practices: Adhere to Individualized Education Programs and Family Service Plans, and/or Individualized Health Care Plans (IHCPs) as directed by Education Managers or Consultants.
  • Champion Diversity: Incorporate children's interests, cultures, and school readiness goals into individualized and group learning opportunities, celebrating the richness of our community.
  • Ensure Safety: Adhere to state licensing standards, Head Start guidelines, and ISBE regulations by implementing active supervision strategies to ensure the safety of all children, ensuring that no child is ever left alone or unattended. Implement positive discipline guidance in the classroom to create a safe and nurturing environment that encourages positive interactions.
  • Monitor Progress: Support with observations and document each child's health, skills, and development, helping curriculum planning sessions to set clear learning objectives based on findings. In collaboration with classroom teacher, identify developmental concerns regarding children and follow agency protocols for reporting.
  • Stay Compliant: Adhere to all Head Start/Preschool For All regulations, DCFS State licensing standards, Standards of Conduct and Start Early philosophy, ensuring a high-quality educational experience. Monitor and ensure daily attendance, health checks, parent sign/scan in, and meal participation reports are completed.
  • Collaborative Team Environment: Assume the Lead Teacher's responsibilities in their absence, including management of the classroom and delegation of child development and documentation tasks. This entails keeping the classroom environment, ensuring organization, and addressing the diaper or potty-training requirements of the children as necessary.
  • Staff Development: Attend and actively participate in required meetings, training, data dialogues and reflective supervision.
  • Recruitment Efforts: Participate in recruitment activities to maintain full enrollment in the program, engaging with families in the community to spread awareness about the benefits of the program offerings.
  • Training and Professional Development: Take part in continuous professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills in supporting children's school readiness goals. This includes ongoing reflective supervision, all staff meetings, pre-service training and other required training sessions during professional development days.
  • Perform other duties as assigned, adhering to all relevant regulations and agency policies.

Requirements
  • Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE) or Child Development (CD), or 60 college credit hours with a minimum of 15 semester hours including 6 semester hours in infant/toddler development.
  • Gateway's Level 3 Early Childhood Education credential required within 1 year of employment. PFA: Paraprofessional Educator License required within 3 months of hire. Food Handler Certification, First Aid and CPR preferred.
  • A minimum of one year of experience in an early childhood setting, ideally with knowledge of Head Start/Preschool for All programs.
  • Preferred knowledge: Creative Curriculum, Coaching to Fidelity, Teaching Strategies GOLD, ECERS and CLASS and Child Developmentally screening and assessment tools.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with children and families from diverse backgrounds.

We recognize that few candidates might meet every single piece of knowledge, experience, or education listed here. Research shows that women and people of color, among many other historically excluded groups, are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. Start Early is dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your qualifications don't perfectly align with everything in the job description, we still encourage you to apply!
Base Annual Salary: $41,461.00 - $50,113.00 + $3,000.00 Sign On Bonus
We believe that all employees should be paid fairly. As of the time of this posting, this is the expected base annual salary range. The base annual salary will be based on a wide range of factors, including skills, qualifications, experience, as well as business needs and limitations.
Our generous benefits plan includes:
Comprehensive Health Plans, Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion, Holistic Wellness Program, Professional Development Program, 401k Contribution, Paid Volunteer Days, 6 months paid parental leave, and much more.
Start Early is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to our core values by creating an inclusive environment for all staff.