DOD STARBASE Instructional Paraprofessional

Jacksonville North Pulaski School District

Position Title: DOD STARBASE Instructional Paraprofessional

Reports To: DOD STARBASE Coordinator and/or DOD STARBASE Teacher

Contract: 180 days

Closing: Until Filled

SUMMARY: The DOD STARBASE Instructional Paraprofessional assists in the delivery of the Department of Defense STARBASE program by supporting classroom instruction, student engagement, and daily program operations. The paraprofessional works collaboratively with STARBASE teachers and staff to provide hands-on STEM learning experiences that encourage student achievement, teamwork, creativity, and career readiness in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the STARBASE teacher with classroom instruction, laboratory activities, and hands-on STEM projects.
• Support students individually and in small groups during instructional activities and assignments.
• Prepare instructional materials, classroom supplies, technology equipment, and laboratory resources for lessons and activities.
• Monitor and supervise students during classroom instruction, STEM labs, field experiences, transitions, and special events.
• Assist with setup, operation, maintenance, and organization of STEM equipment, robotics kits, computers, and instructional tools.
• Reinforce classroom expectations, safety procedures, and positive student behavior.
• Provide instructional support in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, coding, robotics, aerospace, and related STEM activities.
• Maintain accurate records, attendance, inventory, and classroom organization as directed.
• Assist with STEM events, family nights, camps, competitions, and community outreach activities.
• Support students with varying academic, behavioral, and learning needs in an inclusive learning environment.
• Follow all district policies, safety regulations, and Department of Defense STARBASE program guidelines.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervising administrator or STARBASE teacher.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate degree, paraprofessional certification, or completion of required district/state paraprofessional qualifications preferred.
• Experience working with children or in an educational setting preferred.
• Interest or experience in STEM education, technology, robotics, or hands-on learning activities preferred.
• Ability to work effectively with students, teachers, military personnel, and community partners.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow directions, manage multiple tasks, and maintain confidentiality.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout instructional spaces for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, and organize instructional materials and equipment up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to supervise students in classroom and activity settings.

Working Conditions

• Classroom, laboratory, and educational environments with moderate noise levels.
• Occasional travel to district campuses, military facilities, or educational events may be required.
• Occasional evening or weekend activities may be required for STEM events or family engagement programs.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Successful completion of pre-employment background checks. Appropriate personal and professional conduct at all times around students, other staff members and the general public.

The Jacksonville North Pulaski School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

It is the policy of the Jacksonville North Pulaski School District not to discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin or disability in its educational programs, activities or employment practices.