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MN
Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools
Para Pro Ex Ed- Ida B Wells ES (2026-2027)
Career Insights for Mental Health Assistant
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What they do
A Mental Health Assistant provides basic care and assistance with daily activities to patients with mental illnesses or cognitive disabilities. Helps patients dress and eat, monitors patients' well-being, and restrains patients if they become physically violent. Works in hospitals or mental health care facilities.
$33,890 / year median in Tennessee
+9% projected growth
Job Description
6001001
Incumbents may be assigned to work with 1 to 2 specific students. If that student/s move to a different school, the Para-Pro will be offered the opportunity to move with that student/s. Should the opportunity be declined, continued employment at the current school will be based on business need. What you will do Provides small group instruction under the guidance and supervision of certificated personnel. Facilitates and models appropriate social interactions and behaviors among students. Assists in the personal care of students such as feeding, diapering, lifting, etc. Monitors, collects and records students' behavioral and/or academic performance as directed by the teacher. Actively engages with and consistently supervises all students throughout the day, e.g. playground, field trip, school and classroom settings. Supervises and engages with students during arrival, dismissal, lunch, and/or other activities designated by the teacher or administrator. May assist and facilitate classroom and lesson preparation. Implements students IEPs, functional behavioral assessments, safety plans, and/or behavior intervention plans. Attends and actively participates in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and understanding of special populations, may include training for proper restraint procedures, social and emotional learning best practices and literacy. Maintains professionalism and confidentiality. Models respectful behavior towards students, peers and supervisors. Education Qualifications Associate's Degree in applicable field of study or 48 hours of college credit hours from an accredited college or university or successful completion of Praxis certification Required Experience Qualifications Prior experience working with children Preferred Skills and Abilities Proficient in basic computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite. Demonstrates professionalism and a positive attitude. Able to maintain confidentiality. Able to operate a mechanic lift. Licenses and Certifications Praxis certification
Job Code:
6001001Job Family/Function:
60 -Paraprofessionals\Exceptional Education FLSA:
Nonexempt Grade Ladder:
MNPS Support Hourly Pay Grade:
MNPS.SCH007-H
Duration (days/year): 201 Locations(s): School-Based We Are Team MNPS Metro Schools is one of the largest and most diverse school districts in the United States. Our teachers and staff educate more than 80,000 students in Metro Nashville-Davidson County, preparing them to excel in higher education, work, and life. Our district implements some of the most innovative reform strategies in the nation. We seek to partner with highly effective, engaging teachers, teacher leaders and support staff with a passion for urban education and a go-getter spirit as we strive to become the highest-performing urban district in the nation. Whether you are a teacher, an administrator, or a potential support staff employee, if you want to make a difference, we want to hear from you. Job Summary Works directly with a classroom teacher to assist with the implementation of supports and services provided. Collaborate with teachers and students in a variety of tasks related to academics, behavior and physical logistics. Coaches and encourage students to actively engage in the process of learning and becoming more independent.Incumbents may be assigned to work with 1 to 2 specific students. If that student/s move to a different school, the Para-Pro will be offered the opportunity to move with that student/s. Should the opportunity be declined, continued employment at the current school will be based on business need. What you will do Provides small group instruction under the guidance and supervision of certificated personnel. Facilitates and models appropriate social interactions and behaviors among students. Assists in the personal care of students such as feeding, diapering, lifting, etc. Monitors, collects and records students' behavioral and/or academic performance as directed by the teacher. Actively engages with and consistently supervises all students throughout the day, e.g. playground, field trip, school and classroom settings. Supervises and engages with students during arrival, dismissal, lunch, and/or other activities designated by the teacher or administrator. May assist and facilitate classroom and lesson preparation. Implements students IEPs, functional behavioral assessments, safety plans, and/or behavior intervention plans. Attends and actively participates in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and understanding of special populations, may include training for proper restraint procedures, social and emotional learning best practices and literacy. Maintains professionalism and confidentiality. Models respectful behavior towards students, peers and supervisors. Education Qualifications Associate's Degree in applicable field of study or 48 hours of college credit hours from an accredited college or university or successful completion of Praxis certification Required Experience Qualifications Prior experience working with children Preferred Skills and Abilities Proficient in basic computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite. Demonstrates professionalism and a positive attitude. Able to maintain confidentiality. Able to operate a mechanic lift. Licenses and Certifications Praxis certification