Special Education Paraprofessional

Cole Academy is currently hiring for a Full Time 1:1 Special Education Paraprofessional.

Cole Academy is Lansing's longest-standing charter school in the state of Michigan and received a charter through Central Michigan University in 1995. The Academy originated as an Early Childhood Center and over the years, gradually became a K-5 Public School. Combining a foundation of current, research-based, balanced literacy objectives and a sustained professional development direction from Heggerty and UFLI and current literacy program supports that "raised the bar" for student achievement. Reader’s and Writer’s Workshops continue to be critical directions for Cole Academy. Math facts operation and mastery and problem-solving are a strong focus within our math curriculum. MTSS tiered interventions and support and PBIS behavior support continue to be at the forefront of our student progress monitoring for student growth and success. All core subjects are a priority with ELA and Math as the foundation.

Cole Academy Values

• We are committed to hiring a racially diverse staff at our district.
• Willingness to learn new skills, to be reflective, and to acquire new knowledge through sustained professional learning
• Establishes and maintain standards for student behavior needed to achieve a respectful and cooperative learning atmosphere in the classroom
  
  

Performance Responsibilities

• Translates lesson plans into learning experiences to best utilize the available time for instruction
• Continuously evaluates students’ academic, emotional and social growth using appropriate records, and prepares ongoing progress reports
• Ability to work effectively with colleagues regarding curriculum, instruction, interventions and assessment
• Follows the goals of students in an IEP or 504 plan
• Maintains ongoing, multiple methods of communication with parents
• Maintains professional competence through learning activities provided by the District and/or self-selected professional learning activities
• Performs other duties and responsibilities assigned by the building administrator following guidelines outlined in the Employee Handbook and by the Board of Education
  
  

Job Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Special Education Paraprofessional to join our team. The Special Education Paraprofessional will work closely with students who have diverse learning needs, supporting their academic and social development under the direction of special education teachers and other educational staff. This role is pivotal in providing a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for students with disabilities, ensuring that they have equal access to education.

Key Responsibilities

Essential Duties:

• Assist teachers with the preparation and implementation of instructional materials, resources, and classroom activities.
• Assist special education teachers in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with disabilities.
• Provide instructional assistance under the supervision of the classroom Teacher.
• Provide one-on-one and small group support to students in various subjects.
• Help students develop academic, social, and communication skills through targeted interventions.
• Help with classroom management and maintain a positive learning environment.
• Monitor student progress and behavior, providing feedback to teachers and other educational staff.
• Supervise students during non-instructional times (e.g., recess, lunch).
• Communicate effectively with teachers, students, and parents regarding student progress and needs.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and other staff members to design and implement effective strategies for student success.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and other sensitive information.
• Assist in the preparation and delivery of instructional plans.
• Support student assessment
• Regular and predictable attendance
  
  

Cognitive Demands

• Supervise multiple students at once
• Provide instructional assistance to students in an individual or small group setting
• Ability to maintain a safe and orderly environment for students
• Participate in continuous professional development
• Effective oral and written communication skills
  
  

Physical Demands

• Occasionally lift and/or move objects weighing up to 25 pounds
• Stand and walk frequently
• Withstand all demands presented by outside weather conditions at any time of the year
• Assist/lift students if necessary
• Withstand a moderate noise level
  
  

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; Associate's degree or bachelor's degree in education or related field preferred.
• Previous experience working with children, particularly those with special needs, is highly desirable.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for helping students succeed.
  
  

Company Benefits

• Health Insurance: Medical, Vision, & Dental Plans
• 5% 401(k) company match
• Life, ADD, STD, LTD 100% paid by the employer
• Voluntary Plans Available
  
  

For more information on Cole Academy, please visit our website at https://www.coleacademy.org/.

CS Partners/Partner Solutions provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits unlawful discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression, marital status, familial status, height, weight, or any other protected status under federal, state or local laws.