SPED Paraprofessional

Description

The Special Education Paraprofessional provides instructional and behavioral support to students with diverse learning needs under the guidance of teachers and educational specialists. This role involves assisting with the implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), providing one-on-one and small group support, monitoring student progress, and collaborating with educators and therapists to promote academic, social, and emotional growth. The SPED Para ensures that students receive individualized support to maximize success in the classroom environment.

Compensation and Benefits

• Full-time, non-exempt
• Salary based on experience and qualifications
• Eligible for health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid leave benefits

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Experience working with students with diverse learning needs highly desirable
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team
• Patience, empathy, and commitment to supporting student development
• Adaptability to changing student needs and classroom situations
• Knowledge of instructional and behavioral strategies for students with diverse learning needs

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist teachers in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with diverse learning needs.
• Provide one-on-one and small group support to students in academic and social settings.
• Monitor and document student progress, behavior, and engagement.
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and other professionals to develop effective strategies for student success.
• Support classroom management and maintain a positive, inclusive learning environment.
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Implement instructional and behavioral programs for students, either individually or in groups, as assigned.
• Provide program and lesson modifications for individual students to enhance social, emotional, and cognitive skills, as directed by resource and general education teachers.
• Act as a liaison between resource and general education teachers, including relaying messages, input, and feedback on student progress.
• Assist and supervise students during assessments.
• Maintain compliance with all school policies, procedures, and regulations, including safety and emergency protocols.

Essential Job Functions

• Instructional support for students with diverse learning needs
• Implementation of IEP goals and lesson modifications
• Behavioral support and classroom management
• Documentation and recordkeeping of student progress
• Collaboration with teachers, therapists, and staff

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions

Competencies

• Strong planning, organizational, and time management skills
• Professional preparation, growth, and development
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with frequent interruptions
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with staff and families
• Proficiency with technology and common software applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Google Suite, PowerPoint, and student data management systems

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Work primarily performed in a school setting interacting with students, staff, and families
• Frequent standing, walking, and occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds
• Mental functions include communicating, analyzing, coordinating, instructing, evaluating, and using interpersonal skills
• Exposure to routine classroom environments with potential for sensory stimuli

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to include all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required of the employee. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice