Bridges Paraprofessional - Boylston Elementary

Position:Boylston Elementary School Bridges Paraprofessional PositionReports To:Rob PelczarskiWork Year Days:20262027 School YearWork Hours:Full School DayEducational/Training/Experience/License Required:Evidence of Highly Qualified status through one of the following:

• Completion of at least 48 college credit hours from an accredited institution; or
• Associates Degree or higher; or
• Passing score on the ParaPro Assessment

Accountability Objective:The Bridges Program Paraprofessional works under the direction of the classroom teacher, special educator, and related service providers to support students with a wide range of cognitive, developmental, behavioral, communication, and social-emotional disabilities. The paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, functional, and emotional support to help students access the curriculum, build independence, develop social-emotional skills, and participate successfully in the school environment.This position requires patience, flexibility, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.Responsibilities:

• Participate effectively as a member of the Bridges Program team in supporting student learning and development
• Build positive, respectful, and supportive relationships with students, families, and staff
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal and communication skills with students and team members
• Support students in developing independence, self-regulation, social skills, and positive self-image
• Maintain strict student confidentiality and professionalism at all times
• Share relevant information with teachers and school personnel to support problem-solving, decision-making, and program planning
• Support the implementation of instructional programs and accommodations designed by teachers and specialists
• Work with individual students and small groups to reinforce academic, functional, communication, and social-emotional goals
• Assist with functional assessments, data collection, behavior tracking, and progress monitoring as directed
• Implement behavior support plans, de-escalation strategies, and crisis prevention techniques as needed
• Assist students with transitions, routines, organization, and daily living or functional skills as appropriate
• Support the development of inclusive learning environments that respect individual differences and student needs
• Assist teachers with preparing instructional materials, adaptive resources, and classroom organization
• Help modify learning activities and instructional strategies to accommodate varying learning styles, communication needs, and abilities
• Maintain awareness and familiarity with student IEPs, 504 Plans, behavior plans, and individual learning goals
• Demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics and needs associated with a variety of disabilities, including cognitive, developmental, autism spectrum, communication, and social-emotional disabilities
• Support students in general education, community-based, and vocational settings as appropriate
• Maintain familiarity with school procedures, classroom routines, and safety protocols
• Provide physical assistance or supervision to students as required by individual student needs
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities related to special education, behavior management, and student support
• Perform other duties as assigned by administration

Required Qualifications:To work collaboratively under the direction of classroom teachers, special educators, and related service providers to provide instructional, behavioral, functional, and social-emotional support to students with diverse learning needs. Support may include services for students with IEPs, 504 Plans, district accommodation plans, and intensive educational or behavioral needs within the Bridges Program. Evidence of Highly Qualified status through one of the following:

• Completion of at least 48 college credit hours from an accredited institution; or
• Associates Degree or higher; or
• Passing score on the ParaPro Assessment
• Experience working with children or adolescents, preferably in an educational or special education setting
• Experience supporting students with cognitive, developmental, behavioral, or social-emotional disabilities preferred
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and flexibility in a dynamic educational environment
• CPI, Safety Care, or related behavioral support training preferred (or willingness to obtain training)
  DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:Boylston Elementary School is seeking a dedicated and student-centered Paraprofessional to support teaching and learning across classrooms. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with teachers and staff to assist in the delivery of instruction, provide individualized and small group support, and help maintain a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students.Experience working in an elementary school setting.Familiarity with special education practices and student support strategies.Experience supporting students with diverse learning needs, including behavioral and social-emotional support.TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:20262027 School YearSALARY:In accordance with the negotiated Paraprofessionals Contract- The Berlin-Boylston Regional School District does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender, religion, disability, gender identity, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related medical conditions, national origin, homelessness, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other status or class protected by state or federal law.