Job Title: Paraprofessional- GSRP Associate Teacher

Building/Department: Park Elementary

Reports to: Building Principal

Summary:

Collaborate with a GSRP Lead Teacher to provide developmentally appropriate instruction and support kindergarten readiness skills for at-risk preschoolers.

Education and Experience:

• Associate's degree (AA) in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or equivalent.
• Valid CDA credential preferred.
• Prior experience with preschoolers is a plus.
• Ability to work collaboratively with the GSRP Lead Teacher.
• Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification with TB test.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

(These duties and responsibilities are judged to be "essential functions" in terms of the Americans with Disabilities Act or ADA)

Instruction and Development:

• Implement high-quality, developmentally appropriate practices aligned with the GSRP Implementation Manual (https://www.michigan.gov/mileap/early-childhood-education/early-learners-and-care/gsrp).
• Assist in planning and co-teaching curriculum and activities with the Lead Teacher and other specialists.
• Engage in activities with children at their developmental level, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment.
• Co-implement the Highscope and Conscious Discipline approaches.
• Participate in child development screenings and collaborate on individualized learning plans.
• Participate in home visits (if applicable) to promote family engagement.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Utilize effective written and oral communication skills to interact with children, families, and staff.
• Maintain professional communication and demeanor in the classroom, representing GSRP and the school district positively.
• Attend and participate in professional development opportunities.
• Maintain student confidentiality.

Safety and Supervision:

• Supervise children during classroom activities, outdoor play, and emergency drills.
• Monitor student safety during arrival, departure, and off-site activities (e.g., field trips).
• Assist in maintaining a clean and safe learning environment.
• Administer basic care needs, including diaper changes and toileting assistance.

Recordkeeping and Support:

• Assist the Lead Teacher with classroom records, attendance tracking, and progress monitoring.
• Complete incident reports as necessary.
• Assist with classroom preparation and instructional materials management.
• Participate in staff meetings and provide input as needed.
• Assist with communication to parents and collaborate with transportation providers.
• Show initiative in seeking guidance and information related to the role.
• Perform any additional duties as assigned
• Maintain a consistent and reliable on-site work schedule

Qualification Requirements: 

To perform the job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Language Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and concisely with students, staff, and parents/guardians in a professional manner. This may include giving instructions, providing feedback, and resolving conflicts.
• Mathematical Skills: Basic mathematical skills to assist with tasks such as data collection, progress monitoring, and creating charts or graphs
• Reasoning Ability: Ability to problem-solve, analyze student needs, and make informed decisions to support their learning.Ability to follow established procedures and adapt to changing situations.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Standing, walking, and sitting regularly required throughout the workday. Frequent bending, kneeling, crouching, and reaching to access materials assist students, or move furniture. Occasional lifting and carrying materials weighing up to 50 lbs., such as books, supplies, or manipulative objects. Regularly required to move around the classroom to provide individualized attention and monitor student behavior. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and depth perception.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This position is located in a traditional school setting. The work environment is fast-paced, collaborative, and requires a high degree of flexibility. You will be working in a classroom setting alongside a teacher, with students of varying ages and abilities.

Union Representation:

Please note: This position is Unionized. Salary, terms and other conditions of employment established by the SEIU 517M.

FLSA Status:

This is a Non-Exempt FLSA position. Non- Exempt employees are eligible for overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act. 

Reasonable Accommodations:

Three Rivers Community Schools is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants with disabilities. To request an accommodation during the application process, please contact the Human Resources Office at 269-273-1104.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement:

Three Rivers Community Schools is an equal opportunity employer.It is the policy of Three Rivers Community Schools that no person shall, on basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, disability or other legally protected characteristics, be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination during any program, activity, in hiring or in employment. 

Additional Information:

• Compensation and Benefits: Competitive benefits package. Hourly Wage as determined by SEIU 517M Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Schedule: 180 days per year, generally following the TRCS Academic Calendar. Includes non-working days during winter, spring, and summer breaks, as well as designated holidays.
• Application: Open until filled. Internal and external candidates are welcome.

How to Apply:

• External Candidates: Submit application, resume, and relevant credentials through the school district's online portal:https://trschools.tedk12.com/hire/index.aspx