Job Description: School Paraprofessional

Position Title: Paraprofessional (Instructional Aide)
Reports To: Building Principal and/or Classroom Teacher
Contract Length: As determined by district calendar

Position Summary

The School Paraprofessional supports teachers and instructional staff in providing high-quality educational services to students. This position assists in the delivery of instructional programs, classroom management, behavior support, and student supervision to promote student learning, safety, and positive school climate. Paraprofessionals work under the direct supervision of certified teachers and administrators.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional Support

• Assist teachers with instructional activities for individuals and small groups of students.
• Reinforce lessons introduced by the teacher to enhance student understanding.
• Provide academic support in reading, math, writing, and other subject areas as directed.
• Assist students with special learning needs, accommodations, and modifications as required.
• Support implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 Plans, and behavior intervention plans.

Classroom & Behavior Support

• Assist with classroom management and maintaining a positive learning environment.
• Monitor and supervise students during instructional time, transitions, lunch, recess, and other school activities.
• Support positive behavior strategies and implement behavior interventions under teacher direction.
• Maintain student confidentiality in compliance with FERPA and district policies.

Student Care & Safety

• Assist students with daily living needs when necessary (e.g., mobility, toileting, feeding, hygiene).
• Monitor student safety and report concerns to appropriate personnel.
• Provide supervision during arrival, dismissal, field trips, extracurricular activities, and emergency drills.
• Follow all district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Clerical & Organizational Support

• Prepare instructional materials, classroom resources, and student assignments.
• Assist with grading, data collection, record keeping, and documentation.
• Maintain organized classroom materials and instructional supplies.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• Associate degree; 60 hours of college credit; or passing score on Parapro Praxis
• Ability to pass required criminal background and child maltreatment registry checks.

Preferred

• Experience working with children, especially in an educational setting.
• Experience working with students with disabilities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to work effectively with students, teachers, administrators, and parents.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality.
• Patience, flexibility, and ability to manage student behavior positively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and assist students up to 50 pounds as required.
• Ability to perform physical intervention and student support tasks as needed.
• Work is primarily performed in a classroom and school environment.

Terms of Employment

• Salary and work schedule determined by district salary schedule and school calendar.
• Employment subject to board approval and annual evaluation.
• Performance evaluated in accordance with district policies and applicable state standards.