What are the responsibilities and job description for the Paraprofessional (behavior support classroom) position at Garnett Elementary School?
Our district is seeking a compassionate and dependable Behavior Support Classroom Paraprofessional to help support students in a structured classroom environment focused on behavioral, social-emotional, and academic growth. This position works closely with teachers and support staff to help students develop the skills necessary to regulate behavior, build positive relationships, and successfully engage in learning. The ideal candidate is patient, consistent, and committed to helping students succeed through encouragement, structure, and positive reinforcement.
Job Title: Behavior Support Classroom Paraprofessional
Classification: Classified Staff
Reports To: Building Principal and/or Special Education Teacher
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Position Purpose
The Behavior Support Classroom Paraprofessional assists teachers and staff in supporting students who require behavioral, social-emotional, and academic assistance in a structured learning environment. This position helps implement behavior intervention plans, provides supervision and guidance, and supports students in developing appropriate social and learning behaviors so they can successfully participate in the school setting.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Student Support
- Provide direct supervision and support to students with behavioral, emotional, or social challenges.
- Assist students in following classroom routines, expectations, and behavioral goals.
- Support students in developing appropriate social skills, self-regulation strategies, and problem-solving skills.
- Provide individualized or small-group assistance with academic tasks as directed by the teacher.
- Escort and supervise students throughout the school day, including transitions, lunch, recess, and other activities.
- Assist in crisis prevention and de-escalation strategies as trained.
Behavior Intervention
- Implement and support individual Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and strategies developed by the special education team.
- Collect and record behavioral data as directed by the teacher or behavior specialist.
- Reinforce positive behaviors using established classroom systems and supports.
- Assist in maintaining a structured and predictable learning environment.
Classroom Support
- Assist the teacher with preparation of instructional materials and classroom organization.
- Help maintain a safe, orderly, and supportive classroom environment.
- Provide supervision during classroom activities and learning centers.
- Support students with organization, task completion, and focus.
Collaboration
- Work collaboratively with teachers, counselors, administrators, and special education staff.
- Participate in training related to behavior support strategies and student needs.
- Communicate relevant student information with the supervising teacher while maintaining confidentiality.
Additional Duties
- Assist with supervision during arrival, dismissal, lunch, recess, or other school activities.
- Support students in general education settings as appropriate.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the supervising teacher or administration.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Associate’s degree, paraprofessional certification, or college coursework preferred.
- Previous experience working with children, particularly students with behavioral or social-emotional needs, preferred.
- Ability to remain calm and supportive in challenging situations.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding student information.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout the school day.
- Ability to assist with student supervision and intervention when necessary.
- Ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally.
Working Conditions
- Work is performed primarily in a classroom and school environment.
- May involve working with students exhibiting challenging behaviors.
- Must be able to respond appropriately in crisis or safety situations.