Special Education Paraprofessional

The Special Education School Paraprofessional provides individualized educational, behavioral, communication, and personal support to a nonverbal student in a school setting. The paraprofessional works closely with the classroom teacher, special education team, ABA consultant, therapists, and family to support the student’s educational goals, communication, independence, and overall success at school. Essential Responsibilities Provide direct 1:1 support to the student throughout the school day. Assist the student in accessing classroom instruction, assignments, and school activities. Support communication using the student’s preferred communication system, including AAC devices, pictures, gestures, sign language, or other methods. Follow the student’s IEP and individualized educational and behavioral support plans. Work collaboratively with the ABA consultant to implement recommended behavioral strategies and support plans consistently. Communicate with the ABA consultant regarding the student’s progress, behaviors, triggers, successes, and areas of concern. Collect and document behavioral and educational data as directed by the teacher, special education team, or ABA consultant. Use positive reinforcement and other approved behavior-support strategies. Support appropriate replacement behaviors and help the student develop functional communication and independence. Assist with transitions between classrooms, activities, lunch, recess, transportation, and other school routines. Maintain a calm, predictable, and supportive environment. Assist with personal care, feeding, mobility, or other daily living needs when required and appropriate. Promote independence by providing appropriate levels of prompting and gradually reducing assistance when possible. Monitor the student’s safety and well-being throughout the school day. Participate in meetings and training with the classroom teacher, special education team, ABA consultant, and related service providers. Maintain confidentiality and respect the student’s dignity, privacy, preferences, and individual needs. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent; additional education or paraprofessional certification preferred. Ability to work patiently and positively with a nonverbal student. Willingness to learn and consistently use the student’s communication system, including AAC. Strong teamwork, communication, observation, and problem-solving skills. Ability to follow individualized educational and behavioral plans consistently. Professional Collaboration The paraprofessional is expected to work as part of a collaborative team and follow the direction of the classroom teacher and special education team while working closely with the ABA consultant to support consistent implementation of behavioral and communication strategies across the school day.