Special Education Paraprofessional

Classification:

Hourly, School Year Staff Job Summary The Special Education Paraprofessional supports students with disabilities in a variety of educational settings. This role involves assisting teachers in implementing individualized education programs (IEPs), promoting student engagement, monitoring student behavior, and fostering a positive learning environment.

Education and Experience:

High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or higher preferred. Experience working with children or individuals with disabilities is a plus. Duties /

Responsibilities:

Adapt classroom activities, assignments and/or materials under the direction of the supervising teacher for the purpose of supporting and reinforcing classroom objectives and meeting IEP goals. Support students with disabilities in academic tasks, personal care, and social interactions. Monitor and document student progress, behavior, and engagement. Provide one-on-one or small group support to students as needed. Adapt instructional materials and methods to meet the diverse needs of students. Help create a safe and inclusive classroom environment. Collaborate with teachers, specialists, and parents to address students' needs. Participate in training and professional development as required. Assist with the preparation of instructional materials and classroom organization. Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines regarding student information including . Supervision duties within the lunchroom, halls, recess, field trips and any other duties as assigned by the supervisor and/or administration. Accompany students and other staff on field trips or other community outings to support student participation and ensure safety of students. Assists students (e.g. diapering, lifting, transitioning from desk to wheelchair etc.…) for the purpose of attending to the student's personal hygiene and care needs. Collects data on the student's IEP goals for the purpose of maintaining accurate records and engaging in data based decision making. Intervenes in potential conflicts utilizing appropriate verbal, physical, and/or therapeutic approaches for the purpose of diffusing confrontations and minimizing disruptions. Prepares the learning environment to allow the student to participate in classroom activities. Supports students in learning functional/life skills by providing hand-over-hand support or verbal support to complete designated tasks. Required Skills /

Abilities:

Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Basic computer skills. Patience, empathy, and a commitment to supporting diverse learners. Ability to follow instructions and work collaboratively as part of a team. Knowledge of special education practices and IEP processes is beneficial.

Work Conditions:

Work primarily in a school environment. May involve interaction with students in various settings (classroom, playground, etc.).

Physical Requirements:

Lifting and Carrying:

Ability to lift and assist students who may have mobility challenges. This may involve lifting up to 50 pounds.

Mobility:

Ability to move around the classroom and school premises, including walking, bending, and kneeling, to provide support to students in various settings.

Standing and Sitting:

Capacity to stand for extended periods during activities, as well as the ability to sit on the floor or low chairs to engage with students at their level.

Physical Assistance:

Ability to assist students with personal care tasks, which may involve physical support for activities like toileting, feeding, or transferring.

Manual Dexterity:

Skill in using hands for tasks such as assisting with writing, operating educational tools, or handling classroom materials. Calmness in

Crisis Situations:

Ability to physically intervene if necessary to ensure student safety, while maintaining composure in potentially stressful situations.

Job Types:

Full-time, Part-time Pay:

$17.00 - $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person