Classroom Assistant Paraprofessional (Full-time) - 2026/2027 School Year

About Mastery:

Founded in 2001, Mastery Schools is a public charter network of 23 K-12 schools in Philadelphia and Camden, serving more than 14,000 students. At Mastery, we're on a mission to provide all students with the academic and personal skills they need to succeed after graduation and pursue their dreams. Student achievement is not just a goal for our organization; it's the reason we exist, and every member of our team is dedicated to securing student success. We are also committed to pursuing equity, actively disrupting systemic racism, and addressing the disparities that limit our students' choices. Our culture is built on respect, service, and the belief that the success of our students, their families, and the communities we serve will help us achieve our mission. We foster a positive, open, and inclusive environment where honesty, humor, and continuous improvement are celebrated. Join us in creating a model urban school district that serves all students with excellence. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

The opportunity:

The paraprofessional shows an unwavering commitment to student achievement to improve the knowledge, skills, and lives of students. The paraprofessional works with children individually and in small groups to ensure that students meet academic and social-emotional success in the classroom as measured by mastery of IEP goals, progress monitoring data, and/or academic achievement data. \n

Duties and Responsibilities:

Ability to assist classroom teacher to teach and positively manage the behavior of special education students; this includes supporting students' behavior across all environments of the school including inclusion classes, lunch, and cooperative play Ability to assist with domestic and personal maintenance (including meal preparation, direct and assistive feeding, diapering, cleaning, sanitizing toys, play objects, etc.) Ability to provide small group instruction/interventions Ability to maintain sensitive, confidential information Must be able to work collaboratively in a non-traditional, urban environment Participation in relevant professional development

Qualifications:

Knowledge of and ability to apply relevant current special education methodologies and techniques Outstanding instructional skills, including the ability to motivate and challenge students and maintain an orderly classroom environment A strong sense of personal accountability for student achievement A belief that all students should be held to high academic standards Demonstrated professionalism and responsibility, and a strong work ethic A positive, high-energy attitude and a drive for personal excellence The ability to problem-solve and a sense of humor are required

Education and Experience:

Associate's Degree (or at least 48 college credits) or passing score of ParaPro exam required; education-related field preferred Experience working with adolescents, school-setting experience preferred Experience working with students receiving special education services

Physical Requirements:

Standing, walking, sitting for long periods of time, speak loudly and clearly, seeing and hearing things both near and far away, stooping, kneeling, fine finger and hand manipulation in use of a computer, chalkboard, dry erase board or projector, repetitive hand and arm motion

Salary and Bonus Information:

This role is eligible for a $1,000 signing bonus! New classroom assistants start at $41,500 , with Mastery offering up to $49,000 based on experience and education. Salaries range from $41,500 to $58,250, with growth opportunities as your career progresses. \n

Mastery's Benefits Package:

We offer a full benefits program and opportunities for professional growth. Some of our most popular benefits include our 403(b) retirement plan for PA employees (with a 5% match from Mastery for full-time employees), enrollment in the State of New Jersey Pension Plan for NJ employees, a robust Employee Assistance Program, mental health and counseling programs, an annual Professional Development Fund, and discounts and perks at a myriad of retailers, travel organizations, insurance providers, and so much more, as well as access to the HealthAdvocate Helpdesk to help you navigate various benefits-related topics. Please go here to see all of our Benefits offerings !

Annual Calendar:

As you plan to make Mastery your new work home, please feel free to review our calendar here . We like to think our calendar is a benefit of working here too!

Why You Should Apply:

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. Mastery may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.