What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Para Professional 2026-2027 School Year position at Alabama State Department of Education?
CHAMBERS COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
PARAPROFESSIONAL
QUALIFICATIONS :
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Successful experience working with children preferred.
- Two (2) years of college experience or obtain a score of three (3) or higher on each section of the Work Keys assessment or approved alternative to meet highly qualified status.
FLSA STATUS : Non-exempt
SUPERVISED BY : Principal, Teacher(s) assigned
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES :
- Ability to relate to and work with students and adults in a positive manner.
- Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
- Basic English and mathematics skills.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Basic knowledge of technology and ability to apply knowledge to assigned areas of responsibility.
- Ability to perform clerical tasks.
- Ability to plan and organize.
- Knowledge of operation of office and audio-visual equipment.
- Ability to work cooperatively with colleagues.
- Ability to be flexible.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
JOB GOAL:
To assist the teacher, student(s) and/or other school personnel by performing assigned tasks.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :
- Assists the teacher(s) in preparing materials and equipment for direct instructional activity, including locating, copying, collating, distributing and/or grouping materials to support instructional activities planned by the teacher.
- Examines short- and long-term unit plans prepared by the teacher and anticipates the need for specific supplies and materials.
- Follows appropriate training and leads small group activities planned by the teacher in an atmosphere where students are actively engaged in meaningful learning experiences.
- Assists the teacher in preparing for changing curriculum to meet the needs of students with diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, learning styles, and special needs.
- If working with students with disabilities, become knowledgeable of the student’s disability and the appropriate instructional and behavioral strategies for that student.
- If working with students with disabilities, be willing and physically able to feed, diaper, toilet, transfer a student to /from a wheelchair, and (with another adult’s assistance) lift a student.
- Maintains a clean and orderly environment for students.
- Manages the computer lab or computer assisted instruction in the classroom.
- Assists teacher with student supervision as assigned.
- Assists in maintaining the security of records, materials, and equipment.
- Assists the teacher in the enforcement of classroom rules and the maintenance of appropriate records.
- Assists in assessing student progress as directed, including proctoring the administration of tests and maintaining confidential records.
- Provides instructional assistance as planned or coordinated by the teacher.
- Communicates effectively with the staff members, students, parents, administrators, and other contact persons using tact and good judgment.
- Follows attendance, punctuality, and proper dress rules.
- Ensures adherence to good safety standards.
- Maintains confidentiality regarding school/workplace matters.
- Models and maintains high ethical standards.
- Demonstrates initiative in the performance of assigned responsibilities.
- Maintains expertise in assigned area to fulfill project goals and objectives.
- Participates successfully in the training programs offered to increase skill and proficiency related to assignment.
- Keeps supervisor informed of potential problems or unusual events.
- Responds to inquiries and concerns in a timely manner.
- Serves on school/system committees as required or appropriate.
- Exhibits interpersonal skills to work as an effective team member.
- Demonstrates support for the school system and its goals and priorities.
- Demonstrates initiative in identifying potential problems or opportunities for improvement.
- Prepares all required reports and maintains all appropriate records.
- Participates in cross-training activities as required.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Salary, benefits, length of work year, and hours of employment shall be established by the Board’s salary schedule.
EVALUATION:
Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board’s policy on evaluation of classified personnel.