ESP Paraprofessional

ESP Paraprofessional

The Dougherty County School System is seeking a compassionate and student-centered ESP Paraprofessional to support students with disabilities in achieving academic, behavioral, and social success. Under the direction of a certified ESP teacher, the ESP Paraprofessional assists with implementing individualized instructional strategies, supporting Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and promoting a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. This position plays a critical role in helping students access the curriculum, build independence, and develop essential life and academic skills.

The ESP Paraprofessional will work at Radium Middle School and Martin L King, Jr. Elementary School.

Qualifications:

Sixty (60) semester hours of college credit required;
Associate's degree preferred;
Experience working with students with disabilities or in special education settings preferred;
Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive student information;
Ability to follow instructional and behavioral support plans;
Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Superintendent and Board of Education may find appropriate.

Skills and abilities

include:
Ability to build positive and supportive relationships with students with diverse learning and behavioral needs;
Knowledge of or ability to support Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), accommodations, and modifications;
Ability to assist with differentiated instruction and reinforce academic and behavioral strategies;
Strong communication and collaboration skills when working with teachers, administrators, related service providers, and families;
Ability to support students in developing social, behavioral, and life skills;
Ability to use instructional technology and assistive technology to support student learning;
Ability to remain patient, flexible, and responsive when working with students with varying needs;
Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality when handling student information.

Performance responsibilities include:
Assisting the special education teacher in implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and instructional plans;
Providing one-on-one or small group instructional support to students with disabilities to reinforce learning objectives;
Assisting students with academic tasks, classroom participation, and skill development as directed by the teacher;
Supporting students in developing independence, communication, social skills, and appropriate behavior;
Assisting in implementing behavior intervention strategies and supports positive behavior management;
Providing assistance with accommodations and modifications required to support student learning;
Assisting with preparing instructional materials, organizing learning resources, and maintaining classroom organization;
Supporting student supervision during classroom instruction, transitions, and school activities;
May assist students with personal care needs, mobility, or other physical supports as required by the student's individualized plan;
Collaborating with teachers, therapists, and support staff to ensure students receive appropriate services and supports;
Participating in professional learning opportunities related to special education practices and student support strategies;
Demonstrating prompt and regular attendance and performing other duties as assigned by the Principal or designee;
Performing other duties as assigned.

Work environment/physical requirements include:
Ability to lift and carry instructional materials or assist students when necessary (typically up to 25 pounds);
Ability to assist students with mobility, positioning, or physical support as required;
Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, or move throughout the classroom and school environment for extended periods;
Ability to actively supervise and support students during instructional activities and transitions;
Ability to respond appropriately in emergency situations, including assisting students during drills or evacuations;
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Reports to:

Principal

Salary range:
Competitive salary and excellent benefits package in accordance with the DCSS Compensation Guide.

Final date to receive applications:
Applications will be reviewed upon submission. To ensure consideration, please submit all required application materials by August 19, 2027. Interested applicants should apply online.