Special Education Paraprofessional (1 yr school-based experience preferred)

Catalyst Academy Charter School | Pittsburgh, PA
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Location: In Person

Who We Are

Catalyst Academy Charter School is a free, open-enrollment public charter school serving students and families in Pittsburgh’s East End. Our mission is to create a world-class K–8 school where children are prepared for college, career, and life.

At Catalyst, we believe in building a cohesive community where students and families see themselves as catalysts for positive change within their communities. Our culture is grounded in three core values:

Belong. Grow. Achieve.

Belong: We create spaces where our people feel seen, heard, and valued for the lived experiences they bring to our community.

Grow: Our people continuously strive to improve through feedback, coaching, and collaboration.

Achieve: We focus on results and celebrate the progress and accomplishments of our students and team.

Catalyst Academy is committed to providing a rigorous and supportive learning environment that promotes academic success, personal growth, and educational equity for all students.

Who We’re Looking For

Catalyst Academy seeks a dedicated and resilient Inclusive Learning Associate (Paraprofessional) to join our team. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about supporting students and helping every child access the tools and support needed to succeed in the classroom.

Successful candidates demonstrate:

• A strong commitment to student growth and educational equity
• The ability to build positive relationships with students
• A collaborative and team-oriented mindset
• Openness to feedback, coaching, and professional growth
• Patience, resilience, and a strong work ethic
• A willingness to support students with diverse learning and behavioral needs

This role involves active, hands-on support with students throughout the school day and requires individuals who are comfortable working closely with students with diverse academic and behavioral needs.

This position reports to the Inclusive Learning Director and works closely with classroom teachers and the Inclusive Learning team to support student success.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct one-on-one and small group support to students to assist with academic tasks, classroom participation, and learning activities.
• Reinforce teacher-directed instruction and classroom curriculum by assisting students with assignments, guided practice, and classroom routines.
• Support the implementation of IEP accommodations, interventions, and individualized supports under the direction of classroom teachers and the Inclusive Learning team.
• Assist teachers in maintaining a structured, safe, and positive classroom environment by supporting classroom expectations and student engagement.
• Monitor student engagement and behavior and communicate relevant observations to teachers and the Inclusive Learning team.
• Assist with collecting and recording student progress data to support progress monitoring and intervention planning.
• Support students in developing independence, organization, and positive learning behaviors.
• Provide support related to daily learning activities and classroom routines to ensure students can successfully participate in instruction.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers and the Inclusive Learning team to support the academic and developmental success of students.

Skills & Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience working with children in a school-based setting (K–8 or higher) providing academic, behavioral, or classroom support.
• Ability to support teacher-directed instruction and reinforce classroom curriculum through individual or small group assistance.
• Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and supporting students with accommodations and intervention strategies.
• Experience supporting classroom management and maintaining a structured learning environment.
• Familiarity with or willingness to apply trauma-informed practices when supporting students with diverse learning and behavioral needs.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students while encouraging independence and engagement in learning.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills when working with classroom teachers, the Inclusive Learning team, and other instructional staff.
• Ability to collect, record, and communicate student support data to assist teachers and support teams in monitoring student progress.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling student information and educational records.
• Organized, dependable, and able to work effectively in a fast-paced school environment.

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Associate’s degree preferred

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Catalyst Academy Charter School does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), sex, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or military status in any of its activities or operations.

We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, students, families, community partners, volunteers, subcontractors, and vendors.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $37,000.00 - $40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Describe your experience supporting students in a classroom setting. What specific strategies have you used to help students stay engaged with assignments or classroom activities?
• What experience do you have supporting students with individualized learning needs, such as implementing accommodations, behavioral supports, or intervention strategies in a school setting?
• What compels you to serve and work alongside communities of color? Why do you believe Catalyst Academy Charter School is the place for you? (max. 500 words)

Experience:

• school-based: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $37,000 - $40,000