Paraeducator

Paraprofessional (Head Start, Title I, Regular Education, and Special Education)

Location:          Site Level School

Reports To:  School Principal

Salary Range:  Per WBR Salary Schedule

Terms of Employment:  9 Months

GENERAL OVERVIEW

      The paraprofessional working in Head Start, Title I, Regular Education or Special Education classrooms shall work directly with
      students under the direct supervision of the classroom teacher to assist with the effective management/instruction of the
      class/classes to which he or she is assigned. 

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assists in meeting the instructional needs of the students under the direction of the classroom teacher
• Interacts appropriately with students, and assists in creating an environment conducive to learning
• Helps students with personal possessions
• Assists in maintaining discipline standards according to the regulations of the school system and the assigned teacher
• Assists with handling of specialized equipment, computer, software, assistive language devices, etc. as directed by the classroom teacher
• Attends faculty meetings, parent conferences/meetings, and IEP meetings when requested
• Assists in maintaining classroom equipment and assists in keeping materials of instruction organized and clean
• Maintains student confidentiality
• Accompanies students to other classes, the restroom, recess, etc.
• Assists with feeding, diapering, and toileting, as well as other custodial or health-related duties as required for Head Start students and students with disabilities*
• Makes necessary wheelchair/equipment adjustments and positioning needed throughout the school day*
• Lifts and moves students as necessary*
• Assists in meeting the medical needs of students with disabilities: catheterization, administration of medication, etc. after proper training is provided*
• Becomes knowledgeable of and assists with the implementation of appropriate educational programs/standard
• Participates in grade level/subject areas meetings and /professional development activities
• Other duties as assigned

*    Specific to Paraprofessionals assigned to Head Start, Special Education classes or to other Paraprofessionals
      who serve in Regular Education or Title I classes that are a part of the Special Education Inclusion program.

 PERSONAL TRAITS

      Exhibits competency in the following areas:

• Poise and self-confidence
• Enthusiasm and optimism
• Punctuality
• Dependability
• Flexibility
• Willingness to implement recommendations
• Acceptable speech and grammar
• Effective communication with students
• Discreet handling of confidential information
• Unbiased attitude regarding race, sex, creed, religion or disability
• Effective communication with colleagues and other adults

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Highly Qualified:  Must have accomplished at least one of the following:

1. Passed the Educational Testing Service (ETS) Para-Pro Assessment (ETS Para-Pro Assessment #0755) with a passing score of 450; or
2. Completed two years of full-time study (48 semester credit hours) from a state-approved or regionally accredited institution of higher education (as defined by requirements in No Child Left Behind legislation);or
3. Earned an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, or Associate of Applied Science degree from a state-approved or regionally accredited institution of higher education.

• Non-Highly Qualified: (Head Start Only)

1. A high school graduate of GED
2. At least twenty years of age
3. Score at tenth grade level on the California Achievement Test or other test as designated.