A Teacher Assistant assists classroom teachers by providing extra individual attention and instruction to students. Helps teachers with recordkeeping, preparation for lessons and activities and supervising students. May work with special education students, or work in a school library or computer lab; may be called teacher aide or paraprofessional.
Onward Education is partnering with a public school program to hire Special Education Paraprofessionals to support students across K-12 settings . This role is a great fit for someone who enjoys being hands-on in the classroom, building student independence, and collaborating closely with teachers and special education teams. In this position, you'll work under the direction of licensed/certified educators to provide instructional support and behavioral/functional support for students with disabilities. Assignments may include 1:1 support and/or small-group support, depending on student needs and the campus team.
Position Details:
Setting:
On-site, school-based
Location:
Dakota County, MN School Year:
2026-2027
Schedule:
6.25 hours/day (about 31.25 hours/week)
Responsibilities:
Support academic instruction designed by special and general education teachers, including small groups, 1:1 follow-up, re-teaching/review, and keeping students on task. Implement IEP accommodations/adaptations and help students access instruction, which may include note-taking support, reading aloud, using technology tools, and organizational supports. Support implementation of behavior plans, including positive reinforcement, self-regulation strategies, de-escalation support, and safe transitions when behavior impacts learning. Collect student data as directed and share observations with the special education team. Promote an inclusive, positive learning environment and support peer interactions and social/communication skill development. Provide mobility and personal care support as needed, which may include toileting/diapering, lifting/transferring, dressing, feeding/eating, and hygiene support. Maintain confidentiality and protect student/family privacy. May accompany students on school-related community outings, which may include driving a district vehicle if applicable to the assignment.
Qualifications:
Experience supporting students in school, youth programs, behavioral health, special education, or similar settings; 1-2 years preferred. Comfortable supporting students with a wide range of learning, communication, sensory, and behavioral needs. Ability to remain calm, supportive, and consistent in high-need moments. Willingness to assist with personal care and physical support duties when required by the assignment. Strong teamwork and communication skills; able to take direction and provide clear, professional feedback to staff.
What We Offer:
Competitive pay and benefits package. Access to a wide network of schools and districts for diverse placement options. Streamlined hiring process to get you started quickly. Ongoing communication and advocacy throughout your placement. Personalized support from dedicated recruiting professionals. Opportunities for professional growth and development. Why Apply? If you're passionate about creating positive change and supporting students' success, this is the opportunity for you! Work alongside a dedicated team of educators and support staff, helping students reach their full potential. Ready to join us? Apply today - we can't wait to hear from you!
Employer Details:
Onward Search is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in an employment with regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws and ordinances. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment.
EOE/M/F/D/V/SO.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire. Onward Search is unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp or Independent Contractor arrangements at this time. All freelancers will be paid as W2 employees. Onward Search offers medical, dental, vision benefits, as well as a 401k program, for all eligible full-time temporary assignments. Onward Search is a drug-free workplace. Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing, and technology. Our clients are continuously turning to us to fill their open positions. Therefore, there is no application deadline for this position, as we are seeking candidates for this type of role across all our clients on an ongoing basis.
