26-27 Special Education Paraprofessional

Position Summary: 

Paraprofessionals in the Somerville Public Schools assist teachers in all aspects of the functioning of the classroom, including instruction and maintaining a safe classroom environment. Paraprofessionals contribute to a positive classroom and school environment and collaborate with colleagues to support students in a variety of ways. Paraprofessionals are part of a community of educators who are continuous learners and who have a shared responsibility for student success.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

The essential functions or responsibilities listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

• Assist with instruction as directed by the teacher
• Develop an understanding of the curriculum
• Support the overall management of the classroom and student behavior
• Provide small group and/or individual instruction under the direction of the classroom teacher
• Provide assistance and supervision of students during cafeteria time, recess and if needed, toileting
• Assist the classroom teacher with the development of curriculum materials
• Help to create and maintain a safe learning environment
• Support students’ emotional regulation
• Collect academic and/or behavioral data as directed
• Develop and maintain positive, respectful, and appropriate relationships with students
• Engage positively, respectfully, and professionally with colleagues
• Collaborate with colleagues to support student learning and success
• Positively contribute to a classroom and school community that affirms the identities of all students and staff
• Use practices and approaches that value student diversity 
• Protect student confidentiality 
• Engage in meaningful professional development opportunities and apply the learning from those experiences
• Understand and utilize appropriate technology
• Complete required paperwork and duties as assigned
• Additional duties as assigned by the Principal/Supervisor and in accordance with the SEU Collective Bargaining Agreement

Qualifications, Knowledge, Abilities, & Skills

• Appropriate Department of Elementary and Secondary Educator's license in the field or subject for this position
• DESE SEI endorsement Required
• Bilingual Educator Preferred

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the position’s essential functions.

• Standing and walking for prolonged periods; frequent bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, which may include sitting on the floor to effectively engage with students;
• The use of hands and fingers to operate computers, instructional technology, and classroom materials.
• Sufficient visual, auditory, and verbal ability to supervise students, deliver instruction, and evaluate student performance. 
• Ability to lift, carry, and move instructional materials and supplies, weighing up to 15 pounds. The position further requires the ability to respond appropriately and promptly to emergency situations to ensure the health and safety of students.

Reporting Relationships

• School Building Principal

Terms of Employment

Position Type: 
Employment Status: Full Time

• Schedule: 183 days - Scheduled School Year
• FLSA Classification: Non Exempt
• Salary shall be commensurate with education and experience, in accordance with the Somerville Educator's Union collective bargaining agreement.

Pre-Employment Requirements

MA Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Clearance

Fingerprints

The Somerville Public Schools does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, home status, marital/civil union status, sex/gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, place of birth, national origin, ancestry, cultural identity, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work

Salary : $47,619 - $61,905