What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Paraprofessional position at STARS Learning Academy?
Para Professional (K–4) — Trauma-Informed Therapeutic Day School
School: STARS Learning Academy (part of RSEC)
Location: Amherst, NH
Schedule: Full-time, 190 days; potential for additional summer days
Compensation: Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
Overview
STARS Learning Academy, a trauma-informed therapeutic day school serving students in grades K–4, is seeking compassionate and skilled Para Professional to provide instructional and behavioral support across all core content areas (ELA, mathematics, science, and social studies). The ideal candidate is student-centered, culturally responsive, and experienced in supporting learners with diverse academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs.
Key Responsibilities
● Support students in all core content areas (ELA, math, science, social studies) aligned to standards and student IEPs.
● Integrate trauma-informed practices that prioritize safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment.
● Implement individualized behavior support plans and collect behavioral data.
● Embed SEL, self-regulation, and executive-function supports into daily routines.
● Collaborate with related service providers (counseling, OT, SLP) and special education staff.
● Support students with the use of assistive technology to increase access and engagement across content areas.
● Maintain a predictable, nurturing, and culturally responsive classroom environment with clear expectations and consistent routines.
● Support transitions within and across grade levels.
● Participate in professional learning and schoolwide initiatives.
● Assist with behavioral response teams when needed.
Required Qualifications
● Experience teaching at the elementary level and supporting students with disabilities, including emotional/behavioral needs and complex learning profiles.
● Knowledge of trauma-informed pedagogy, SEL frameworks, de-escalation/restorative approaches, and behavior support planning with data collection.
● Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
Working Conditions
● Small class sizes and high staff-to-student ratios with embedded clinical and behavioral supports.
● Collaborative team environment with regular consultation from related service providers.
● School calendar (190 days) with potential opportunities for summer programming.
● Ongoing professional development focused on trauma-informed care, SEL, and evidence-based instruction.
● Physical demands consistent with elementary teaching, including active supervision and occasional crisis-prevention support.
Benefits
● Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Starting at $20.00 per hour
● Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, retirement).
● Paid time off(sick and personal) and professional development opportunities.
● Supportive organizational culture within RSEC with growth opportunities.
About STARS Learning Academy (RSEC)
STARS Learning Academy, part of the Regional Services and Education Center (RSEC), is a nonprofit therapeutic day school serving students across New Hampshire. We provide individualized academics, clinical support, and family partnership to help young learners build skills, confidence, and readiness for success in school and life.
How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter, resume, certification(s), and three professional references.
Apply at: https://www.rsec.org
For questions, contact: Devin Bandurski at dbandurski@rsec.org
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour
Expected hours: 37.5 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Bereavement leave
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20 - $25