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Teacher Assistant Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

Direct Instruction, Precision Teaching, behavior science research, with Occupational Therapy prioritized alongside ABA About ExcelPrep -- Bloomington Campus * Mission: Provide a nurturing ...

Teacher Associate

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Keep on-going records of all students receiving one-on-one instruction and assists teachers and students in record keeping. * Assist teachers on educational field trips. * Participate as a member of ...

Teacher Associate

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Keep on-going records of all students receiving one-on-one instruction and assists teachers and students in record keeping. * Assist teachers on educational field trips. * Participate as a member of ...

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Teacher Assistant information

See Normal, IL salary details

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How much do teacher assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for teacher assistant in Normal, IL is $15.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a teacher assistant?

Teacher Assistants, also known as paraprofessionals or teacher aides, are educational professionals who support teachers in the classroom. They help with instructional responsibilities, classroom management, and providing individualized attention to students. Teacher Assistants may assist with grading, preparing materials, supervising students, and supporting students with special needs. Their work allows teachers to focus more on instruction and helps create a positive and effective learning environment.

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

To thrive as a Teacher Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of educational practices, classroom management, and child development, often supported by an associate degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with learning management systems, educational software, and basic administrative tools is commonly expected. Strong communication, patience, and teamwork skills help Teacher Assistants effectively support students and collaborate with lead teachers. These abilities are crucial for fostering a positive learning environment and ensuring smooth classroom operations.

What does a teacher assistant do?

In schools across the country, teacher assistants—also called paraprofessional educators—are an integral part of classroom culture. Teacher assistants provide help to both teachers and students in a variety of ways. For example, a teacher assistant performs simple administrative tasks, like filing paperwork or putting up bulletin board displays, so that the classroom teacher can focus on planning lessons and grading student work. During classroom instruction, a teacher assistant will circulate the classroom and provide help to students who are off-task or confused. At times, a teacher assistant may be asked to lead a small group of students in extra practice on a given topic.

What are the most common challenges teacher assistants face when supporting diverse classrooms, and how can they effectively address them?

Teacher Assistants often work with students from various backgrounds and abilities, which can present challenges such as language barriers, differing learning styles, and behavioral issues. To address these challenges, it's important to collaborate closely with the lead teacher, adapt instructional materials, and use effective communication strategies. Being proactive in seeking professional development opportunities and fostering a supportive classroom environment also helps Teacher Assistants meet the diverse needs of students successfully.

What is the difference between Teacher Assistant vs Paraprofessional?

AspectTeacher AssistantParaprofessional
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent; often similar certification requirements
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, schools, educational settingsClassrooms, special education, support roles in schools
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and private schools, educational institutionsPublic schools, special education programs, educational support services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilitiesClarifying job duties, certifications, and differences

Both Teacher Assistants and Paraprofessionals support classroom activities and work closely with teachers and students. While their roles often overlap, Paraprofessionals may have additional responsibilities in special education or specific support functions. Both positions typically require similar educational credentials and are employed in educational settings, making them closely related roles in the education industry.

How can I become a teacher assistant with no experience?

To become a teacher assistant with no experience, you can start by obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent, and consider volunteering or working in educational settings to gain relevant skills. Some positions may require a background check or basic training, and having strong communication and organizational skills can improve your chances of being hired.

How do I get into a teaching assistant?

To become a teaching assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Relevant skills include good communication, patience, and organizational abilities; some roles may require background checks or certifications such as CPR or first aid. Applying through school districts, educational institutions, or childcare centers is common, and gaining experience through volunteering or internships can improve prospects.

What do you need to work as a teacher assistant?

To work as a teacher assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with children or students are important. Some roles may also require background checks and certifications such as CPR or first aid.

What qualifications do I need for a teacher assistant?

Teacher assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Many schools also prefer candidates with strong communication skills, patience, and basic knowledge of classroom technology. Certification requirements vary by state or school district but are generally not mandatory for entry-level roles.

What qualifications do you need to be an assistant teacher?

Assistant teachers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require postsecondary coursework or an associate degree in education or a related field. Relevant skills include patience, communication, and the ability to work with children, and some roles may require background checks or certifications such as CPR or first aid.

What are the most commonly searched types of Teacher jobs in Normal, IL?

The most popular types of Teacher jobs in Normal, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Teacher Assistant jobs in Normal, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Teacher Assistant jobs in Normal, IL are:

What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Teacher Assistant jobs?

Cities near Normal, IL with the most Teacher Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Teacher Assistant job openings in Normal, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,845 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Teacher

Excel Prep

Bloomington, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Overview


ExcelPrep is a mission-driven private program in Illinois dedicated to serving neurodiverse children through structured, research-based instruction. Our work focuses on prioritizing the academic and social success of neurodiverse learners. We are a professional, agile organization committed to delivering high-quality academic and therapeutic programming that supports meaningful learning outcomes.


  • Location: Bloomington, IL (onsite at ExcelPrep Bloomington campus)


  • Program scope: PreK–8 Academic Program and Clinical ABA Program (Ages 3–13)


  • Core approach: Direct Instruction, Precision Teaching, behavior science research, with Occupational Therapy prioritized alongside ABA



About ExcelPrep — Bloomington Campus


  • Mission: Provide a nurturing, academically focused learning environment where neurodiverse students build strong academic foundations, cognitive-linguistic skills, and the confidence to succeed.


  • Programs we offer:
    • PreK–8 Academic Program: Direct Instruction and Precision Teaching; explicit, systematic teaching of reading, writing, and mathematics with mastery, fluency, and generalization.
    • Clinical ABA Program: Cognition-linguistically based; integrates ABA with language development, reasoning, executive functioning, and social competence.


  • Cross-program commitments:
    • Direct Instruction and instructional design
    • Precision Teaching and data-based decision making
    • Instruction grounded in behavior science research
    • Occupational Therapy as a prioritized therapy alongside ABA for sensory-motor development



The Role: Teacher — Bloomington, IL


What you’ll do


  • Deliver explicit instruction using Direct Instruction and Precision Teaching protocols for core academic skills.


  • Implement individualized, data-driven instruction plans aligned with each learner’s goals.


  • Collect, analyze, and report progress data; monitor mastery and generalization of skills.


  • Collaborate with Occupational Therapy and ABA teams to support sensory-motor development and language/behavior goals.


  • Maintain accurate documentation (lesson plans, progress notes, IEP accommodations as applicable).


  • Communicate regularly with families about progress, opportunities, and supports at home.


  • Create an inclusive, engaging classroom environment that supports varied neurodiverse profiles.


  • Participate in ongoing professional development and contribute to program refinement.



Qualifications


Required


  • Bachelor’s degree in Education or Special Education (Illinois teaching license or eligibility; LBS1 strongly preferred)


  • Demonstrated experience or training in Direct Instruction and/or Precision Teaching


  • Passion for and experience with neurodiverse learners and structured, data-driven instruction


  • Strong collaboration and communication skills; ability to work with therapists, families, and a multidisciplinary team


  • Ability to collect and interpret data to inform individualized instruction and progress reporting



Preferred


  • Illinois Special Education license (LBS1/LBS2) or willingness to pursue


  • Experience with ABA concepts; willingness to work under the supervision of a BCBA/ABA-trained team


  • Familiarity with Occupational Therapy principles and sensory-motor considerations


  • Multilingual abilities (e.g., Spanish or other languages) a plus



Work Environment & Schedule


  • Full-time position


  • On-site in Bloomington, IL campuses


  • Collaborative, team-oriented culture with supportive supervisors and coaching


  • Small class sizes; emphasis on high-quality instructional delivery and learner outcomes


  • Occasional after-school or family engagement opportunities as needed



Compensation & Benefits


  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience


  • Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision)


  • Retirement plan options (401k)


  • Paid time off and holidays


  • Professional development and coaching opportunities


  • Room for growth and leadership pathways within a mission-driven organization



How to Apply


  • Submit the following to careers@excelprep.org with the subject line “Teacher – Bloomington”:
    • Resume
    • Cover letter detailing your relevant experience and teaching philosophy
    • Brief statement of your approach to data-driven instruction and accommodations for neurodiverse learners
    • References (optional at initial submission)


  • Application deadline: Open until filled (priority review for applications received by 02/20/2026).


Equal Opportunity


ExcelPrep is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.