What are the responsibilities and job description for the Physical Education Paraprofessional (PE Para) position at Southside Elementary?
POSITION TITLE: Physical Education Paraprofessional (PE Para)
REPORTS TO: Principal
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 185 days with benefits provided according to Siloam Springs School Board policies.
Job Summary:
We are seeking an energetic, patient, and proactive PE Paraprofessional to join our staff. In this role, you will work directly alongside our lead Physical Education teacher(s) to create a safe, inclusive, and active environment for all students. Your primary focus will be supporting students who need extra assistance, managing equipment, monitoring safety during high-energy activities, and helping implement daily lesson plans.
Key Responsibilities:
- Instructional & Student Support
- Adapt Activities: Modify sports, games, and exercises for students with diverse physical or learning needs to ensure everyone can participate.
- Small-Group Leading: Lead specific stations, warm-ups, or small-group activities as directed by the PE teacher.
- 1-on-1 Assistance: Provide direct support to students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or behavioral plans during physical activities.
- Encourage Engagement: Motivate students of all skill levels to participate, practice sportsmanship, and try their best.
- Safety & Supervision
- Active Monitoring: Keep a watchful eye on students during high-motion games to prevent injuries and resolve conflicts quickly.
- Logistics & Equipment Management
- Setup and Takedown: Prepare the gym or field before class (setting up cones, nets, balls) and clean up afterward.
- Inventory & Maintenance: Help track sports equipment and report any damaged or unsafe items to the lead teacher.
- Sanitization: Ensure shared equipment (mats, pinnies/pennies, helmets) is cleaned and sanitized regularly.
Qualifications & Skills:
Required:
- High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
- Ability to pass a state-required background check and fingerprinting.
- Physical stamina to be on your feet, move quickly, and lift/carry sports equipment (up to 40 lbs) throughout the school day.
- Strong communication skills and a patient, positive attitude toward children.
Preferred:
- An Associate’s Degree, 60 college credits, or passing score on a ParaPro Assessment (often required by public school districts).
- Previous experience working with children in a school, camp, daycare, or youth sports setting.
- Basic CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain it upon hire).
- Understanding of behavior management strategies.
Work Environment & Schedule
- Schedule: Full-time Specify hours, e.g., Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM] following the school calendar.
- Location: Alternates between an indoor gymnasium, outdoor sports fields, and standard school facilities. Expect exposure to varying weather conditions for outdoor classes.