New Program Offers Students with Disabilities a Path to Paraprofessional Careers

Paraprofessionals play a critical role in helping students with disabilities be fully included in their classroom and school activities. They are often called upon to offer academic support, behavioral guidance and physical assistance when necessary. They, along with the teachers and students they support, are critical in helping students with disabilities develop the confidence and independence they need to thrive both in school and in their communities.

No one knows this more than students with disabilities, most of whom have benefitted from a paraprofessional at some point in their educational development. Thanks to a grant from the State of Illinois’ Job Training and Economic Development Program (JTED), The Chicago Lighthouse is launching a new program that will give young adults with disabilities the opportunity to play the role of paraprofessional mentor.

The new Career Pathways Program is a partnership with Moraine Valley Community College. Participants will complete a self-directed online course to prepare for the ETS ParaPro Assessment, a certification required to become a teacher’s aide. The program is open to youth with disabilities ages 18-24 who have completed high school and are looking for an opportunity to move into the workforce.

“We want to help those for whom maybe college isn’t the next step,” says Jordan Owens, The Lighthouse’s Vice President of Educational Services. “This program can help them facilitate their way in the world and their futures, particularly if they’re interested in education.”

The curriculum will teach students about how paraprofessionals assist with classroom instruction and help them develop strategies to support students of different learning abilities in reading, writing and math.

“While the coursework will be self-directed, and is designed to be completed within six months, students will meet weekly with a success coach to help plan their course load and remain on track,” says Youth Transition Program Manager Fay Zeigler. “There is an extreme need for paraprofessionals everywhere, and we hope this program will help make a difference.” Upon completion of the program and passing the certification test, students will be placed in a six-week paid practicum to put their newfound skills to work.

The Career Pathways program will enroll two cohorts of five students each (for a total of 10 students) over the next two years. The first cohort begins January 13, 2025, and applications are being accepted through this website. The application deadline is December 6.

If you have any questions about the Career Pathways Program or know of a school that may be interested in placing students from the program, contact Fay Zeigler, Youth Transition Program Manager, at fay.zeigler@chicagolighthouse.org or (312) 666-1331 x 3203.