Special Education Paraeducator
Classified instructional support role providing specialized assistance to students with disabilities
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About Our Organization
We are committed to providing exceptional educational services and creating a positive learning environment for our students, staff, and community. Our organization values integrity, collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in everything we do.
Position Overview
The Special Education Paraeducator provides instructional assistance and support to students with disabilities under the direction of certified special education teachers. This role is essential in implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and ensuring students receive appropriate accommodations and modifications. The paraeducator works closely with teachers, therapists, and families to support student success in inclusive and specialized learning environments.
Responsibilities
Instructional Support
- Provide instructional assistance to students under the direction of certified teachers
- Work with individual students or small groups to reinforce learning concepts and skills
- Assist teachers with lesson preparation, material organization, and classroom setup
- Support students with academic tasks, following teacher guidance and instructional plans
- Monitor student progress and provide feedback to teachers on student performance
- Assist with classroom management and behavior support strategies
- Help maintain a positive, inclusive, and productive learning environment
- Support students with diverse learning needs and accommodations
- Assist with technology integration and use of instructional tools and resources
Student Supervision
- Supervise student behavior and enforce safety rules and regulations
- Monitor students and provide appropriate assistance as needed
- Respond appropriately to emergencies including medical situations and behavioral incidents
- Communicate effectively with students, staff, and parents regarding student behavior and incidents
- Complete required documentation including incident reports and behavior logs
- Maintain order and discipline while fostering a positive environment
- Attend mandatory safety meetings and training sessions on student supervision
Special Education Support
- Implement accommodations and modifications as specified in student IEPs
- Assist with behavior intervention plans and positive behavior support strategies
- Support students with personal care needs including feeding, toileting, and mobility assistance as required
- Collect data on student progress and behavior for IEP documentation and progress monitoring
- Assist with the implementation of specialized instructional strategies and techniques
- Support students during transitions between classes, activities, and settings
- Work collaboratively with special education teachers, general education teachers, and related service providers
- Assist with the preparation and adaptation of instructional materials for diverse learning needs
- Support students in developing social skills and independence
- Participate in IEP meetings and team collaboration as requested
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent (minimum)
- Associate's degree, two years of college coursework, or passing score on paraeducator assessment (as required by state/district)
- Ability to pass background check and fingerprint clearance
- Physical ability to assist students with mobility needs and perform job duties
- Patience, empathy, and understanding of diverse learning needs
- Ability to follow directions and work collaboratively with teachers and staff
- Basic knowledge of special education practices and student accommodations
- Strong communication skills for working with students, staff, and families
- Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding student information
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate's degree or higher in education, special education, or related field
- Previous experience working with students with disabilities
- Training or certification in behavior management, crisis intervention, or de-escalation techniques
- Knowledge of specific disabilities (autism, learning disabilities, emotional/behavioral disorders, etc.)
- Experience with assistive technology and adaptive equipment
- Bilingual skills (as applicable to district needs)
- First aid and CPR certification
- Training in specialized instructional methods (e.g., Applied Behavior Analysis, structured teaching)
Skills & Competencies
- Understanding of special education laws, IEPs, and student accommodations
- Ability to implement behavior intervention plans and positive behavior support strategies
- Patience and flexibility in working with students with diverse needs and abilities
- Strong observation and data collection skills
- Ability to adapt instructional materials and activities for individual student needs
- Effective communication skills for collaborating with teachers, therapists, and families
- Crisis intervention and de-escalation skills
- Knowledge of assistive technology and adaptive equipment
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries while building positive relationships with students
- Organizational skills for managing multiple students and tasks
- Cultural sensitivity and awareness
Work Environment
This position works primarily in classroom settings, including general education classrooms, special education resource rooms, and specialized programs. The paraeducator may work with individual students, small groups, or provide support in inclusive settings. The role involves frequent movement throughout the school building and may require working in various locations based on student needs. The position requires flexibility to adapt to changing student needs and schedules. The paraeducator works closely with certified staff and may be assigned to support multiple students or classrooms throughout the day.
Physical Requirements
This position requires the ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and kneel frequently throughout the workday. The role involves occasional lifting and carrying of materials and equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. Employees must be able to move around the classroom and school building, assist students with mobility needs, and participate in physical activities as part of instructional support. The position requires manual dexterity for handling instructional materials and technology. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Benefits & Perks
Standard Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, holidays, and professional development opportunities. Additional benefits may vary based on employment status and location.
In Addition to Our Standard Benefits Package
Instructional support staff receive:
- Professional development opportunities in special education and behavior support
- Paid training in specialized instructional methods and behavior management
- School calendar schedule with holidays and summers off
- Opportunities for advancement and career growth in education
Legal & Compliance
Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
At-Will Employment
This position is at-will, meaning either the employee or the employer may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, except as may be limited by applicable law or collective bargaining agreement.
Background Check Policy
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include criminal history, employment verification, and reference checks, as permitted by applicable law.