Elementary Paraprofessional / Teacher Aide Job Description

Job Summary

Visible Men Academy (VMA) is seeking a caring, dependable, and student-centered Paraprofessional/Teacher Aide to support classroom instruction, student achievement, and the school's mission of developing outstanding young men of character, confidence, leadership, and academic excellence.

The Paraprofessional works under the direction of the classroom teacher, instructional coach, and/or principal to provide instructional, behavioral, and organizational support while helping create a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment.

Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesInstructional Support

• Assist with daily classroom instruction.
• Work with individual students and small groups to reinforce academic skills.
• Support reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies instruction.
• Assist with intervention groups and differentiated instruction.
• Prepare instructional materials and classroom resources.
• Assist students during assessments as directed.
• Support implementation of accommodations and modifications for students with disabilities, English Learners, and students receiving intervention services.
• Reinforce classroom expectations and routines.

Student Supervision

• Supervise students throughout the school day, including:
• Arrival
• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Recess
• Hallway transitions
• Dismissal
• Field trips
• Emergency drills
• Help ensure student safety at all times.
• Promote positive student behavior consistent with VMA expectations and SHINE values.

Classroom Support

• Organize classroom materials.
• Teach small groups of students
• Copy and prepare instructional resources.
• Maintain an organized learning environment.
• Organize classroom displays and bulletin boards.
• Help maintain student records as assigned.
• Support classroom technology.

School Responsibilities

• Participate in team member meetings, professional learning, and school events.
• Assist with Open House, family nights, Title I events, awards ceremonies, and other school activities.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding students and families.
• Model professionalism and positive relationships with students, families, volunteers, and staff.
• Perform other duties assigned by the Principal.

QualificationsRequired

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 60 college credit hours or a passing score on the Florida Paraprofessional Assessment (if required for the assignment).
• Ability to work effectively with elementary-aged children.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

Preferred

• Associate's degree or higher.
• Experience working in a Title I elementary school.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish or English/Haitian Creole).
• Experience supporting students with disabilities and English Learners.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• Ability to build meaningful relationships with students.
• Classroom management support skills.
• Organizational skills.
• Flexibility and initiative.
• Strong communication skills.
• Basic technology skills.
• Commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

Required Certifications and Training

Successful candidates must complete all required trainings and clearances, including, as applicable:

• Level II Background Screening
• Florida Clearing House Fingerprinting
• Youth Mental Health Awareness (if assigned)
• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Child Abuse Reporting
• School Safety Procedures
• CPR/AED (provided by VMA)
• Threat Management Awareness
• FERPA and confidentiality training
• Any additional trainings required by the Florida Department of Education, the School District of Manatee County, and/or VMA

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to:

• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Lift, carry, or move up to 40 pounds.
• Bend, stoop, kneel, and assist young children.
• Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Respond quickly during emergencies.

Work Environment

The position requires daily interaction with elementary-aged students in classrooms, playgrounds, cafeterias, buses, and other school environments.

Additional Opportunities

Paraprofessionals may have the opportunity to earn additional compensation by working:

• After-school tutoring
• Summer school
• School events
• Extended learning programs

Participation in these opportunities is based on school needs, available funding, and Principal approval.

Why Join Visible Men Academy?

At Visible Men Academy, we believe every child deserves an outstanding academic, character, and social education in a nurturing environment. Our team is committed to helping every VMA Sun SHINE through:

• Selflessness
• Honesty
• Integrity
• Niceness
• Excellence

We are looking for caring professionals who are passionate about making a lasting difference in the lives of young boys and who believe that relationships, high expectations, and teamwork change lives.

Important Information

Visible Men Academy is an equal opportunity employer. Employment is at will and is contingent upon successful completion of all required background screenings, verification of qualifications, and continued compliance with all applicable federal, state, local, charter school, and school policies. The Principal reserves the right to assign additional duties consistent with the responsibilities of this position.

Visible Men Academy is a small public charter school and all team members are expected to demonstrate flexibility and may be asked to assist with additional duties that support the school's mission and vision.

Pay: From $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• Elementary Title I: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17