What are the responsibilities and job description for the Elementary School Paraprofessional position at The Cottage School?
Job Title: Paraprofessional – K–2 (Independent School for Students with Learning Differences)
Location: The Cottage School, Roswell, Georgia
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Position Type: Full-time
About Us
The Cottage School is a nationally recognized independent school serving students with learning differences in grades K–12. We are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and academically rigorous environment where each child’s unique learning profile is honored. We are seeking a dedicated Paraprofessional to join our K–2 team to support students and teachers in a nurturing, structured setting.
Key Responsibilities
As a Paraprofessional in our K–2 program, you will:
- Provide Individual & Small-Group Instruction Support
Work directly with K–2 students—individually or in small groups—to reinforce lessons, support differentiated learning, and help close learning gaps.
- Assist with Lesson Preparation & Materials
Help the lead teacher prepare instructional materials, manipulatives, visual aids, and learning centers to support students with learning differences.
- Monitor & Manage Classroom Behavior
Support positive classroom management by helping maintain routines, redirecting behavior, and reinforcing expectations under the teacher’s direction.
- Student Supervision
Supervise students during non-class time, including transitions, recess, lunch, hallways, and other shared spaces.
- Data Collection & Progress Monitoring
Collect observational data on student behavior and academic progress, assist with formative assessments, and help document student growth.
- Record Keeping & Administrative Support
Assist with attendance, filing, grading simple assignments, maintaining student portfolios, and other clerical tasks.
- After-School Duty
Participate in after-school supervision duties until 5:00 p.m.
- Classroom Maintenance
Help maintain a clean, organized, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment, including learning centers, materials, and supplies.
- Collaborate with Team
Work closely with the lead teacher, specialists (e.g., learning specialists, occupational therapists), and other paraprofessionals to deliver cohesive support.
- Professional Growth & Training
Participate in ongoing professional development, staff meetings, and training focused on learning differences, behavior management, and instructional strategies.
Required Qualifications & Requirements (Top 10)
- High School Diploma or GED
Must have at least a high school diploma or GED.
- Georgia Paraprofessional Certification / Credential
Must hold or be able to obtain a Paraprofessional Certificate issued by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC).
- Educational Experience
- Associate’s degree or higher OR
- At least 60 semester hours of college coursework (non-remedial) OR
- Passing score on the GACE Paraprofessional Assessment.
- Experience Working with Children
Preferred experience (paid or volunteer) working in K–2, special education, or with students who have learning differences.
- Strong Communication Skills
Excellent verbal and written communication, including the ability to communicate effectively with students, teachers, and families.
- Organizational & Time-Management Skills
Ability to manage tasks, create and maintain learning centers, and help organize classroom materials.
- Behavior Management Skills
Experience or comfort using positive behavior strategies, classroom routines, and behavior interventions.
- Ability to Collect & Interpret Data
Capable of logging observations, tracking student progress, and helping with assessments or progress monitoring.
- Physical Stamina
Ability to stand, walk, lift, and assist with tasks such as moving learning materials or supervising young children (may include lifting moderate weight, assisting with transitions).
- Professionalism & Confidentiality
Strong work ethic, punctuality, professional demeanor, and commitment to student confidentiality (FERPA, IEPs, etc.).
How to Apply:
Please submit your resume, a cover letter explaining your interest and experience with K–2 learners or special education, and at least two professional references to lynnb@cottageschool.org
Pay: $39,000.00 - $49,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $39,000 - $49,000