Paraprofessional-Special Education

Job Title: Paraprofessional - Special Education

Job Purpose:

The Paraprofessional – Special Education provides direct instructional, behavioral, and physical support to students with disabilities in both general education and special education settings. Working closely with Education Specialists, general education teachers, and service providers, this role helps implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and supports a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment in accordance with The Academies Charter Management Organization’s mission. This person contributes their talents to create an excellent program and positive school culture at the charter schools within The Academies Charter Management Organization.

Team Relationship:

The Paraprofessional - Special Education reports to the Vice Principal and assigned Education Specialist(s); collaborates with general education teachers, service providers, and the Director of Special Education.

Essential Job Functions:

• Support students in accessing classroom instruction, assignments, and activities in line with IEP goals, accommodations, and modifications.

• Provide one-on-one and small group academic assistance as directed by teachers or specialists.

• Support adaptive skill development such as social interaction, self-care, and behavior regulation.

• Assist students with physical needs, including toileting (diapering and/or assistance on and off the toilet), feeding, and hygiene.

• Monitor student safety in classrooms, playgrounds, hallways, cafeterias, and during transitions

• Implement behavioral support plans with consistency and fidelity; use de-escalation strategies when needed.

• Maintain accurate data logs and progress records as requested by the Education Specialist, School Psychologist, or administrator.

• Prepare and organize instructional materials or assistive technology tools; help maintain classroom organization and equipment care.

• Communicate student progress, behavior, and needs with the educational team.

• Participate in IEP meetings and long-range planning sessions when invited.

• Assist substitute teachers in implementing student accommodations and routines.

• Serve on committees or support schoolwide activities as invited.

• Participate in required professional development and CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) training.

• Help ensure a respectful, inclusive, and well-managed learning environment.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications:

Education/Certifications

• High school graduate. (required)

• 12 units or more of college level coursework completed. (preferred)

• CPI training (provided if not already completed)

• Basic first aid certificate. (required; provided after hire, if needed)

• Spanish language fluency. (desired)

Experience

• Two or more years of experience working with children and adults in a school setting. (desired)

• Experience supporting students with disabilities or behavioral needs (preferred)

• Familiarity with IEP processes and accommodations (preferred)

• Familiarity with early childhood development (desired)

• Past participation in school events. (desired)

Skills, Knowledge and/or Abilities Required

• A love for students and learning

• A commitment to the mission of The Academies CMO

• Demonstrated care for the well-being and academic, social, and behavioral growth of students with disabilities

• Comfort and competence in assisting with self-care and hygiene routines (e.g., toileting, feeding, mobility support)

• Ability to follow and support IEP accommodations, modifications, and behavior plans

• Clear communication and collaboration skills with multidisciplinary teams (teachers, specialists, psychologists, service providers)

• Strong interpersonal skills and a calm, compassionate demeanor

• Ability to follow routines and respond flexibly to the needs of students with varying abilities

• Team-oriented, dependable, and proactive

• Ability to work effectively as part of an instructional and support team

• Working knowledge of school operations and classroom procedures

• Appropriate use of standard English language, in writing and in speech

• Ability to perform non-teaching classroom tasks

• A positive role model for students

• Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with students, teachers, co-workers, and the public

• Ability to word-process and use suitable computer software applications

• Ability to operate a copier, laminator, and similar school machines

• Ability to understand and effectively carry out verbal and/or written instructions from Teachers and Administration

• Enthusiastic willingness to support the educational philosophy of The Academies CMO

• Familiarity with or willingness to be trained in instructional methodology, behavior management, and procedural compliance

• A proactive and effective approach to supporting behavior intervention and student regulation

• Effective conflict resolution and de-escalation skills

• Integrity in all dealings with the school community; is respectful, thoughtful, honest, and fair

• Ability to follow established procedures in an emergency situation

• Awareness of and commitment to mandated reporting responsibilities

The Academies Charter Management Organization Board of Directors will consider candidates for the Paraprofessional - Special Education position based upon a combination of education/certifications, experience, skills, knowledge and/or abilities, and mission fit.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $20.54 - $25.22 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person

Salary : $21 - $25