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Teaching Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Goddard School

Resource Teacher

Springfield, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

As a Resource Teacher, you will collaborate with Lead and Assistant Teachers to implement engaging educational programs and activities. This pivotal role includes classroom support, enhanced ...

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Teaching Assistant information

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How much do teaching assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for teaching assistant in Springfield, IL is $15.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What schooling do you need to be a teaching assistant?

To become a teaching assistant, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, though some positions may prefer or require postsecondary education such as an associate's degree or relevant coursework. Additional skills like patience, communication, and familiarity with classroom tools are also important, and some schools may require background checks or certifications in first aid or child development.

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

To thrive as a Teaching Assistant, you need a solid understanding of educational principles, classroom management, and typically a relevant degree or certification such as a paraprofessional license. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), educational software, and basic office technology is often required. Strong communication, patience, and adaptability are essential soft skills for supporting diverse student needs and collaborating with teachers. These skills ensure effective learning support, positive classroom environments, and successful student outcomes.

What are Teaching Assistants?

Teaching Assistants (TAs) are individuals who support teachers in the classroom, helping with instructional responsibilities, classroom management, and student engagement. Their duties may include assisting with lesson preparation, working with small groups of students, grading assignments, and providing additional support to students who need extra help. TAs play a crucial role in ensuring that lessons run smoothly and that students receive the attention they need to succeed. They are commonly found in schools, colleges, and universities, working under the supervision of a lead teacher or professor.

What is the highest paid Teacher Assistant?

The highest paid teaching assistants typically work in specialized settings such as private schools, higher education, or in roles requiring advanced certifications or experience. Salaries can vary widely based on location, education level, and years of experience, with some earning over $40,000 annually. In certain regions, teaching assistants with additional responsibilities or advanced skills may earn higher wages.

What Does a Teaching Assistant Do?

Teaching Assistants generally work with licensed teachers in school settings to help give students attention and instruction. Their responsibilities may include reinforcing lessons, reviewing materials with students, helping teachers keep records like calculating grades or taking attendance, helping prepare the lessons, and supervising students in and outside of the classroom. Some Teaching Assistants may also be responsible for helping students with special needs, as their presence may allow for additional attention. Teaching Assistants may also be there to help students use programs or software, partake in extracurricular or elective courses, or supervise them as they do their activities. A Teaching Assistant can also be a graduate student who aides their professor during class.

What is the difference between Teaching Assistant vs Teacher?

AspectTeaching AssistantTeacher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a certificate or associate degreeBachelor's degree in education or related field; state certification/license often required
Work EnvironmentAssist in classrooms, support teachers, work with students under supervisionLead classrooms, develop lesson plans, assess student progress
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, educational programs, daycare centersPublic and private schools, educational institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding support roles in educationUnderstanding teaching responsibilities and qualifications

In summary, Teaching Assistants support teachers by helping with classroom activities and student supervision, often requiring less formal education. Teachers have a broader role, including lesson planning and student assessment, typically needing a bachelor's degree and certification. Both roles are essential in educational settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What does a teaching assistant do?

A teaching assistant supports teachers by helping with classroom management, preparing materials, and assisting students with their learning. They may work one-on-one or with small groups, often requiring good communication skills and patience. Teaching assistants typically follow instructions from teachers and may need relevant certifications or training depending on the educational setting.

What are some common challenges Teaching Assistants face when supporting diverse classrooms, and how can they effectively address them?

Teaching Assistants often work in classrooms with students of varying abilities, backgrounds, and learning styles, which can present challenges in providing individualized support. To address these, TAs can collaborate closely with lead teachers to understand each student's needs, use differentiated instruction techniques, and remain flexible in their approach. Building strong relationships with students and maintaining open communication with educators help TAs create an inclusive environment where all students can thrive.

What qualifications do you need as a teaching assistant?

A teaching assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Many positions also value prior experience working with children or in educational settings, along with strong communication and organizational skills. Certification requirements vary by region and school district.

What is the highest paid teaching assistant?

The highest paid teaching assistants typically work in specialized settings such as private schools, higher education, or in roles requiring advanced certifications or experience. Salaries can also vary based on geographic location, education level, and years of experience, with some earning over $40,000 annually in certain regions or institutions.
More about Teaching Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Teaching jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Teaching jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Teaching Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL? For Teaching Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Teaching Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Teaching Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Teaching Assistant jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Teaching Assistant job openings:
Teaching Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Teaching Assistant job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,283 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Middle School Math Teacher for 2026-2027 School Year

Decatur Public Schools District #61

Decatur, IL • On-site

$45K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Middle School Teaching/Mathematics
Date Posted:
3/13/2026
Location:
Dennis Lab School
Date Available:
08/2026
Closing Date:
until filled
TITLE: Certified Secondary Teacher
QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Illinois State certificate in the teaching field qualifying the teacher to teach at the secondary level.
2. Bachelor's Degree
3. Ability to function effectively as a member of the school staff.
4. Such other requirements as the Board may establish.
REPORTS TO:
The Secondary Building Principal
SUPERVISES:
(Instructs and evaluates the school work of designated):
Students
Student Teachers
Volunteers
Assists the Principal with the evaluation of Teaching Assistants
MAINTAINS LIAISON WITH:
Parents. Communicates with parents as the teacher deems necessary, or when requested by parents or administrators.
JOB GOAL: To help students learn subject matter and skills that will contribute to their development as mature, able, and responsible men and women.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:
(In addition to those listed in 500.31, Certified Teacher, the following are the essential fundamentals to include but not limited to the following job duties.)
1. Teaching in compliance with curricular requirements of the State and of the Board of Education of District 61.
2. Remaining current on research, new developments and literature on education, especially elementary and/or the area of special assignment.
3. Compliance with Board Policies, Administrative Regulations, and Board-Employee Agreements at the school level.
4. Participation on an appointive, elective, or volunteer basis in the curriculum development process at the building and district levels, as is required to periodically review all curricular areas to keep them up-to-date.
5. Participation from time-to-time, in the development of District Policies and Administrative Regulations, on an appointive, elective, or volunteer basis.
The major instructional function of the secondary classroom teacher includes:
1. Instructional Delivery
This includes an understanding and the ability to use the principles of learning (motivation, reinforcement, retention, transfer) and the ability to make sound judgments above the use of such instructional techniques as appropriate pacing, questioning, grouping, actively involving the students, and directly vs. indirectly instructing the students.
2. Human Skills
This includes the ability to stimulate students, bring enthusiasm to the learning process, and provide both a concern and care for the worth and dignity of the individual.
3. Planning Skills
This includes the ability to develop goals/objectives for content/skills based upon evaluation of student needs, aptitude, and learning styles. Provision for both individual and group learning experience is involve.
4. Evaluation of Students and Programs.
This includes the ability to construct and use diagnostic, criterion reference and
student achievement tests. Evaluation also encompasses the maintenance and
interpretation of records for students, parents, administrators, and other teachers.
5. Classroom Management
This includes controlling and structuring the learning environment so that students adhere to rules and providing opportunities for students to acquire that self-discipline necessary in school and adult life.
6. Resource Utilization
This includes the ability to use the resource materials available--including both the academic and human, within and outside of the confines of the educational plant.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Salary is based upon Schedules A & B, of the collective negotiated Agreement.
EVALUATION:
Each employee in contractual continuing service shall be evaluated at least once every two (2) years. Each employee not in continuing contractual service shall be evaluated once every year.
Physical Demands
Handle work which deals mostly with people, objects, equipment in a general setting; depth perception and field of vision are important. Employee regularly is required to bend, stoop, twist, turn, reach, lift (up to 50 pounds), carry, pull, push, climb, and kneel; walking and standing approximately 50-75% of each shift. Employee must recognize differences in sound, such as voices/noises that are loud and playful instead of angry and combative; ability to differentiate tones and volumes in conversation.
Mental Demands
The Teacher must ensure that children are supervised at all times, and that children are involved in safe and appropriate activities. There may be a number of situations happening at once, and the Teacher must be prepared to handle accidents and emergencies at any time.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The Teacher will be working in a busy and occasionally noisy environment. There may be a number of activities and situations happening at once, and the Teacher will have to supervise all students at all times.
Decatur Public Schools is an equal employment opportunity employer with an affirmative action plan.
Approved 6/24/97
This position falls under the Decatur Education Association (DEA) Contract - 2022-2026.
The Salary Schedule is attached above. Benefit information can be found HERE.
Attachment(s):
  • 500.033 - Certified Secondary Teacher.doc
  • DEA Salary 2026-2027.pdf

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