Job Title: Special Education Paraprofessional                  
Effective Date: November 1
Reports to: Building Principal and Assistant Director of Special Education

Job Summary

A special education paraprofessional assists in the instructional and behavioral programs and provides physical assistance, if needed, for students with disabilities. Duties range from instructional to physical activities. The paraprofessional works with individuals and small groups of students receiving special education services under the direction of the teacher(s) in general and special education classroom settings.

Qualifications

Education: Must meet one of the following: 

1. High school diploma and 48 college credits
2. Associates degree or higher
3. Passed a rigorous assessment based on PDE Competencies for Special Education Paraprofessionals (verification must be provided)

Experience: Computer skills and prior work with children with disabilities preferred

Skills:            

• Good interpersonal skills
• Good communications skills
• Good problem solving skills 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

1. Assists teacher(s) in implementing IEPs (Individual Education Program).
2. Assists teacher(s) in the implementation of the evaluation of activities, grading papers, and working with various assigned groups.  Assists a classroom professional with testing activities.
3. Assists with student supervision in the classroom.
4. Assist with implementing student behavior management programs.  Maintains an awareness of and assists with students’ emotional problems and physical needs as directed by the teacher.
5. Works directly with students with disabilities either in small groups, one-on-one, or in large groups in the general education classroom, under the direction of the classroom teacher.
6. Provides personal assistance to students when needed.  For example, tying shoes, dressing, feeding, assist or supervise in the rest room, lifting, dressing, diapering, transfers (from wheel chair to another location).
7. Attends field trips and other curricular programs (such as swimming) when directed.
8. Operates AV equipment and other instructional equipment.
9. Assists teacher in related classroom activities such as ordering/organizing materials and supplies, attendance notices, lunch, etc.
10. Attends meetings as requested by teacher or principal.
11. Utilizes special education specific computer hardware/software.
12. Complete 20 in-service training hours per year (July 1 through June 30)
13. Performs other duties as assigned and in conformance with overall needs of students’ special education programs.

Ancillary Duties: 

1. Keep data on students’ academic and/or behavioral performance as directed by the teacher(s).
2. Complete First Aid/CPR and behavioral intervention training as directed.
3. Assist with swimming lessons (may require para to get in the water with student).
4. Attend IEP meetings after the work day, if requested.
5. Complete PCA (personal car assistance) paperwork for MA eligible students as directed.

Physical Demands:  

Light Work – Exerting up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.  If the use of arm and/or leg control required exertion of forces greater than that of sedentary work and if the worker sits most of the time, the job is considered light work.

Work Environment: Typical school environment, subject to inside environmental conditions. 

INTERNAL applicants should email Bonnie Marshall in HR. 

 

EXTERNAL applicants must complete an application and send it with a letter of interest (including Name, Address, Phone Number, and Job Number) to the Human Resources office.