Substitute Teaching Assistant

Nexus Family Healing is hiring Substitute Teaching Assistants for Safe Harbor School at our Manteno, IL location!

Nexus-Indian Oaks is part of Nexus Family Healing, a national nonprofit network of mental health agencies with over 45 years of restoring hope for thousands of children and families through outpatient/community mental health services, foster care and adoption, and residential treatment.

Safe Harbor School (SHS) is our very own private school that serves youth receiving treatment at Nexus-Indian Oaks. SHS serves grades 6-12, and students participate in a curriculum tailored to their unique needs and current grade level. The school provides a special education curriculum accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement and approved by the Illinois State Board of Education. Credits transfer to any school upon the client's discharge. 

At Nexus Family Healing, we embrace diversity, promote equity, and foster inclusion. As a national mental health organization, we serve a diverse group of youth and families, and we strive for our workforce to support and represent that diversity.

Work Schedule & Salary:

• Schedule:  As needed basis throughout the school year and/or summer opportunities available June-August!
• Hours: M-F 7a-3:30pm (prescheduled & on call hours available) 
• Salary:  $17-$18 per hour based on credentials and prior experience

Work Environment: 

• Must be able to assist staff in physical and non-physical interventions with residents.  
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds unassisted and up to 100+ pounds with assistance.  
• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods of time (2-4 hours).  
• Must be able to twist, bend and stretch in a manner conducive to the execution of daily activities within a school.  

Benefits of the Substitute Teaching Assistant Position at Nexus-Indian Oaks: 

• Flexible Scheduling - on call or prescheduled days available year-round
• Endless training on mental health & trauma informed care
• Ongoing support of a team of trained & experienced professionals
• Internal advancement opportunities available with further education
• Tuition Assistance Program to obtain higher education in a related field
• Employee Referral Bonus program

Position Summary:  Our Substitute Teaching Assistant provides support to faculty in areas of student learning and provides support within both the educational and residential setting, with student resident supervision and safety.

Primary Responsibilities:

•  Assist students individually or in groups using established lesson plans.
• Support instruction in the teacher’s absence and help with assignments.
• Prepare materials, maintain records, and supervise classrooms or study halls.
• Support student treatment plans and IEPs.
• Monitor behavior, redirect as needed, and assist with restraints.
• Supervise and transport students between school and residential units.
• Model respectful, inclusive, and professional behavior.
• Promote youth development and emotional growth.
• Ensure safety and cleanliness in all areas and during activities.
• Respond to emergencies and follow safety protocols.
• Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Attend required meetings and training.
• Support Nexus philosophy, policies, and procedures.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned.
• Recognize and value cultural differences in all aspects of work and service delivery.

Required Education and Licensure:

• Must have a valid Illinois Paraprofessional License
• High School Diploma or GED is required
• Minimum 21 years of age
• Valid driver’s license required. Must meet state regulating agency and Home Office driving requirements
• Must have the ability to build strong relationships with diverse individuals or communities and understand their unique needs and challenges
• Must be open to meeting the cultural needs of individuals or communities, considering factors such as language, traditions, and values.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

At Nexus Family Healing, our voices and actions will be focused on recognizing, affirming and respecting people of every race, ethnic background, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender expression and faith. 

ICARE Values & Behavioral Competencies

• Innovation: Leading the way and implementing creative, cutting-edge ideas and approaches.
• Compassion: Listening, honoring differences, and showing respect, kindness, empathy care, and concern.
• Agility: Exhibiting flexibility and adapting quickly.
• Responsiveness: Being quick, positive, and accurate.
• Excellence: Demonstrating quality results that surpass ordinary standards.

APPLY TODAY TO BE CONTACTED BY OUR RECRUITING TEAM! When you work at Nexus, you have the opportunity to change lives — including your own!