What are the responsibilities and job description for the 2026-2027 PARA PRO - ELL position at Santa Fe South High School?
ELL/Bilingual Paraprofessional
Santa Fe South Middle School
Oklahoma City, OK | 191-Day Contract (190 for returning employees)
About Santa Fe South Schools
Santa Fe South Charter Schools (SFS) is a free, public charter network that has served the south side of Oklahoma City for more than 20 years. Rooted in the communities we serve, SFS is committed to providing a challenging, student-centered education that prepares students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Guided by a belief in the potential of every student, Santa Fe South emphasizes strong instruction, meaningful relationships, and the development of life skills, self-confidence, and social responsibility. Our schools partner closely with families to ensure students are equipped to succeed in high school, college, careers, and an ever-changing global society.
About Santa Fe South High School
Santa Fe South High School is the original campus of Santa Fe South Charter Schools—opened nearly 25 years ago with just 200 students and a bold belief that zip code should never determine destiny. Today, the school serves nearly 1,000 students in a beautiful, thoughtfully designed campus that helped bring new life to the Crossroads Mall area of Oklahoma City.
Students often describe Santa Fe South High School in one word: familia. Relationships matter here. Teachers know students deeply, hold them to high expectations, and prepare them to have a seat at any table—ready to succeed now and in whatever path they choose after graduation.
Position Summary
The ELL/Bilingual Paraprofessional supports the instructional program by working closely with teachers to serve English Language Learners (ELLs). This role focuses on providing targeted academic and language support to students in both individual and small-group settings, while also helping students navigate and adjust to the U.S. school system.
This position is ideal for someone who is bilingual, student-centered, and passionate about helping multilingual learners succeed academically and socially.
Core Responsibilities
Student Support & Instructional Assistance
- Provide direct support to ELL students in individual and small-group settings to reinforce academic content and language development
- Assist students with assignments, including reading, writing, and language practice
- Support the development of foundational language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing)
- Help students build confidence and independence in the classroom
Language & Cultural Support
- Utilize fluency in English and another language to support comprehension and communication
- Assist students in adjusting to U.S. school expectations and routines
- Promote cross-cultural understanding and collaboration among students
Collaboration & Communication
- Work closely with teachers to support lesson objectives and student learning goals
- Communicate student progress, needs, and challenges to instructional staff
- Support implementation of instructional strategies aligned to student needs
Classroom & School Support
- Monitor students in various settings (classroom, transitions, lunch, field trips) to ensure a safe and positive environment
- Assist with classroom preparation, including copying, organizing materials, and maintaining bulletin boards
- Document and report student behavior, incidents, or concerns as appropriate
Additional Responsibilities
- Maintain confidentiality of student information at all times
- Perform other duties as assigned to support campus needs
- Adapt to alternative work settings if required during school or district closures
Qualifications
Required
- High School Diploma or GED, and one of the following:
- Minimum of 48 college credit hours, or
- Passing score on the OGET, Parapro Assessment (455 ), or WorkKeys (Level 4 )
- Successful completion of a Bilingual Skills Test
- Demonstrated fluency in English and at least one additional language (reading, writing, speaking)
- Ability to work effectively with diverse student populations
- Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
Preferred
- Experience working with English Language Learners
- Experience in a school or educational setting
What Makes Someone Thrive in This Role
- Believes all students can achieve at high levels and is committed to supporting that growth
- Builds strong, respectful relationships with students and staff
- Is flexible, proactive, and solutions-oriented
- Communicates effectively across cultures and language differences
- Works well in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to sit and stand for extended periods
- Occasional lifting (up to 25 pounds), bending, and movement throughout the classroom
- Ability to use a computer and standard office equipment
- Work primarily in a school-based, climate-controlled environment
- May occasionally work outside normal school hours to meet campus needs
Why Santa Fe South
At Santa Fe South, we are committed to developing educators and staff who are deeply invested in student success. Our campuses are built on collaboration, strong instructional systems, and a shared belief that every student deserves an excellent education.
Team members are supported through meaningful professional development, strong leadership, and opportunities to grow within the organization. The work is challenging—but deeply rewarding—and grounded in purpose.