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Teaching Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Teaching Assistant information

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How much do teaching assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 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 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 schooling do you need to be a teacher's 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 basic knowledge of classroom tools are also important.

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.

Can I be a teaching assistant with no experience?

Teaching assistant positions often do not require prior experience, especially for entry-level roles or those in educational settings that provide on-the-job training. Having strong communication skills, patience, and a willingness to learn can be sufficient, though some roles may prefer or require relevant coursework or certifications. Employers may also consider volunteer work or related experience when evaluating candidates.

How much is a TA paid?

The pay for a teaching assistant (TA) varies depending on the location, institution, and experience, but typically ranges from $10 to $20 per hour. Some TAs may receive stipends or hourly wages, and pay rates often increase with additional responsibilities or certifications such as teaching or educational support credentials.

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 for a teaching assistant?

A teaching assistant typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring postsecondary education or relevant coursework. Strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to work with children or students are important, and some roles may require background checks or certifications such as first aid or child development training.
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 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:
PRN EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER ASSISTANT

PRN EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER ASSISTANT

Memorial Health

Assumption, IL • On-site

$21.44/hr

Per diem

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Memorial Health rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 171 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

487th of 873 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Min
USD $15.50/Hr.
Max
USD $21.44/Hr.
Overview
Position Summary:
Primary responsibility under the guidance of the Teacher, is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children that encourage their social, emotional, physical and intellectual development through designing and implementing a developmentally appropriate curriculum according to guidelines established by the Creative Curriculum and the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Illinois Department of Children and Family services.
Qualifications
Education:
Must be at least 19 year of age and have high school diploma or equivalency certificate (GED).
Other Skills & Knowledge:
Excellent communication skills.
Responsibilities
Principal Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Interact frequently, affectionately, and respectfully by smiling, touching, and holding children. Speak in a friendly, calm, soft and courteous manner within close proximity of the child. (E)
  • Respect and observe children's interests. Intervene when needed to maintain safety. Enhance children's play with language, toys and activities. (E)
  • Communicate directly with each child at the child's level. (E)
  • Engage and communicate constructively with individual children during activities and routines. Take every opportunity to positively extend children's thinking and actions. (E)
  • Be available and responsive to children's needs, questions, and requests. (E)
  • Encourage and model social behavior and expectations which are developmentally appropriate. (E)
  • Acknowledge feelings with sensitivity and demonstrate appropriate expression of emotions. (E)
  • Practice positive discipline techniques in guiding children's behavior according to Memorial Child Care's Guidelines for positive discipline. (E)
  • Be attentive, flexible and supportive of children and their families during transitions to and from classrooms. (E)

Curriculum
  • Implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum based upon the guidelines set forth in the Creative Curriculum which reflects observations and assessments of individual children. (E)
  • Assist in the design of an environment which responds to children's individual developmental levels, physical and emotional needs and current interests through the use of Creative Curriculum. (E)
  • Foster positive self-concepts by supporting individuality, independence, and the ability to make choices. (E)
  • Encourage creative expression. (E)
  • Demonstrate respect for diversity by providing anti-bias, non-sexist language, images, and experiences which reflect both center and global communities. (E)
  • Share ideas in planning a daily schedule which provides a balance of activities using the Creative Curriculum lesson plan. (E)
  • Assist in the documentation of children's accomplishments through anecdotal notes, observations and portfolios. (E)

Faculty/Parent Interactions
  • Acknowledge parents and all classroom visitors. Demonstrate a friendly, courteous and professional manner. (E)
  • Respond to parents' comments and concerns with sensitivity, interest, and respect. Maintain confidentiality. (E)
  • Participate in a Primary Care giving relationship with individual children and their families. (E)
  • Share appropriate information with parents on a daily basis regarding the development and specific activities of the children in their primary care. Utilize appropriate written communication tools as assigned. (E)
  • Assist in the planning and attend center/classroom events and meetings. (E)

Physical Environment, Health, Safety and Nutrition
  • Maintain and follow all safety and health rules of the center. (E)
  • Supervise children at all times. Demonstrate awareness of entire group while working with a small group or individuals. (E)
  • Know the number of children in your group and maintain ratios at all times. (E)
  • Maintain accurate attendance records throughout the day. (E)
  • Complete appropriate paperwork (i.e., accidents, medication) (E)
  • Encourage children to utilize appropriate health, safety and nutritional practices. (E)
  • Keep environment and equipment safe, clean and attractive. Encourage respect for classroom materials. Notify designated individual in advance when supplies are needed. (E)
  • Assist in arrangement of space in clearly defined, well organized activity areas. (E)
  • Organize a variety of materials on low, open shelves for children to use independently. (E)

Professionalism
  • Maintain confidentiality about issues concerning other faculty members, children and families or Memorial Child Care management and operations. Must not involve parents in center concerns. (E)
  • Become very familiar with ages and stages of development for those children under your care.. Understand the general areas of physical, social, cognitive and emotional development for this age group. (E)
  • Support organizational mission, philosophies, values, goals, and policies to parents, co-workers, and community. (E)
  • Ensure continuity of care for children by reporting to work on time and maintaining consistent attendance, arranging and communicating leave requests in advance. (E)
  • Respect and adhere to staffing schedules which may be adjusted as programs needs change and may include working in another classroom. (E)
  • Demonstrate flexibility and openness to new ideas in child care practices. (E)
  • Attend faculty meetings, training sessions and other center events. (E)
  • Continue professional growth by attending courses, asking for feedback, and reading professional literature. (E)
  • Receive constructive criticism with an attitude that indicates a willingness to improve. Give feedback in a respectful manner. (E)

Teamwork
  • Establish and maintain a relationship of cooperation and respect with co-workers. (E)
  • Assume a fair share of work. Look for ways to be helpful. Demonstrate initiative. (E)
  • Assume additional classroom and center responsibilities as needed: kitchen, pets etc. (E)
  • Offer and share ideas and materials with co-workers. (E)
  • Participate actively in teaching team through communication, collaboration, and curriculum planning. (E)
  • Communicate directly, work to resolve conflicts quickly, and avoid gossip. (E)
  • Exercise care in expressing views regarding the personal attributes or professional conduct of co-workers. Statements are based on first-hand knowledge and relevant to the interests of children and programs. (E)

Performs other duties as assigned.

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