Paraprofessional - Special Education AIM

Position Summary

The A.I.M Program (Adapt, Include, Motivate) is a specially designed program for students on the autism spectrum. Students receive specialized instruction designed to fit their individual needs within a substantially separate classroom with opportunities in the general educational setting when deemed appropriate, by the student’s educational team. The program is supported by a team of clinical specialists (BCBA, Occupational Therapist, Speech and Language Pathologist and Counselor). The program’s methodology of teaching relies heavily on the philosophy of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) through the utilization of various strategies including discrete trial training (DTT), errorless learning, prompting hierarchies, and incidental teaching. The classrooms also utilize a multi-sensory approach and total communication systems. Generalization of skills and independence are goals for all students within the program. Delivery of instruction occurs in 1:1, small group, and/or large group settings with appropriate supports and behavioral plans in place. The AIM program currently services children in pre-k through 8th grade in both the Capuano Early Childhood Center and the Winter Hill Community Innovation School.

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
  
  

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: 208 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