Lead Paraprofessional - Northview Middle School

The Ankeny Community School District (CSD) is renowned for its excellence across academics, athletics, the arts, and various activities. Situated in central Iowa, just 6 miles from Des Moines, Ankeny CSD caters to over 12,800 students from preschool through 12th grade, making it the 7th largest district in the state. With a strong reputation for its commitment to student success and a competitive salary and benefits package, Ankeny CSD is a standout choice for both educators and families seeking a high-quality educational environment.

JDE: 5.56

Lead Paraprofessional

Purpose Statement
A Lead Paraprofessional is an experienced and thoughtful paraprofessional leader who is invested in the overall wellbeing and professional growth and development of new paraprofessionals.  As a leader, the Lead Paraprofessional shares their knowledge and expertise, and acts as a guide and role model in acclimating new paraprofessionals to their building and to the district.  In addition, this individual will assist with general support for the paraprofessional team, at their respective building, particularly with communication and collaboration with the building level administration. 

Job Title:  Lead Paraprofessional          

Hourly Wage: $18.75/hr.

Hours: 8:00 AM - 3:45 PM

Reports To:  Building Principal 

Wage/Hour Status:  Non-Exempt

Benefit Summary: D

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Successful experience working as a paraprofessional
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to collaborate well with others
• Valid Iowa Paraeducator Certificate, preferred

Lead Paraprofessional Essential Functions: Onboarding, Training, and Mentoring

• Work collaboratively with building level administration to build and support a building-level onboarding and mentoring experience for new paraprofessional hires. 
• Routinely check in with new paraprofessional hires and support their acclimation to the building.
• Cultivate and maintain strong professional relationships within the paraprofessional team. 
• Maintain consistent and open communication with the paraprofessional team.
• Provide job shadowing, training, and instructional support to new hires as coordinated with building administration.
• Deliver building-specific training for new staff in partnership with the administrative team.
• Serve as a positive role model for the paraprofessional team and the broader school community.
• Meet regularly with building administration to discuss staffing needs, resolve problems, and improve the onboarding process.

Paraprofessional Essential Functions

May vary based on building assignment and individual student needs

• Assist classroom teachers in implementing lesson plans by working with individual students or small groups to reinforce instruction. This may include adapting instructional materials under teacher guidance to accommodate various learning styles and abilities.
• Provide one-on-one or small group support for students.
• Provide accommodations and modifications for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 plans, health plans, or other specialized needs.
• Assist teachers in monitoring student progress and provide feedback to teachers on student performance and behavior.
• Support students with the use of instructional technology (e.g., Chromebooks, iPads, assistive technology), including logging in, troubleshooting minor issues, or navigating platforms.
• Assist with the implementation of behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and sensory strategies, as directed by special education staff.
• Support students with activities of daily living, which may include feeding, toileting, mobility assistance, and hygiene, when necessary.
• Maintain confidentiality and follow legal and ethical standards related to student support.
• Supervise students in various settings  including classrooms and non-classrooms, such as study hall,  media center, hallways, cafeterias, gyms, playgrounds, buses, and during arrival and dismissal.
• Promote and model positive behavior, using de-escalation techniques and conflict resolution strategies when needed.

Other Functions 

• Collaborate with teachers and other paraprofessionals to meet the needs of all students.
• Provide excellent customer service and assistance to all students, parents, and colleagues, fostering a welcoming and approachable atmosphere.
• Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned.
• Work efficiently and independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate respect and professionalism in all interactions with colleagues, students, and families.
• Use positive and professional communication in all interactions.
• Adhere to safety protocols and policies established by the Ankeny Community School District to ensure the safety of oneself and others.
• Support District goals and objectives while adhering to all District policies, contributing to the overall success of the school community.
• Maintain consistent and reliable attendance and remain fully engaged in work duties, ensuring personal electronic devices do not interfere with student supervision or instructional support. 
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Working Environment 

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

The usual and customary methods of performing the position functions require the following physical demands:  lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, climbing, reaching, driving, standing and walking. Working conditions may include extreme temperatures and humidity.  Hazards may include exposure to communicable diseases. This position requires one to maintain emotional control under stress. 

Terms of Employment 

Work year established by the District; Salary according to schedule adopted annually.

Clearances

Background Clearance.

Evaluation 

Job performance will be evaluated annually, as per district policies and procedures.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

The Ankeny Community School District is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer.

Salary : $19