Long-term Preschool Paraeducator

Amherst, Amherst-Pelham, and Pelham Public School Districts

District: Amherst Public Schools
Position Type: Long-Term Substitute
Assignment: Integrated Preschool Program
School Year:

Amherst Public Schools is seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and motivated Long-Term Substitute Preschool Para educator to support students in our integrated preschool program, including specialized programming based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other disabilities.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively with special education teachers, related service providers, and other educational professionals to provide individualized instructional, behavioral, and developmental support to preschool students ages 3-5.

This position involves providing direct student support and implementing developmentally appropriate instructional strategies under the direction of a licensed special education teacher. Candidates with relevant training and experience are encouraged to apply; training may be provided to qualified individuals who demonstrate a willingness to learn.

Instructional and Developmental Support

• Provide direct instructional and classroom support to preschool students, individually and in small groups, under the supervision of a special education teacher.
• Implement developmentally appropriate learning activities aligned with students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and instructional goals.
• Support students with expressive and receptive language development, communication, social interaction, and play skills.
• Assist students in developing self-regulation, independence, adaptive living skills, and sensory processing strategies.
• Implement Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies and other evidence-based instructional practices as directed by qualified professionals.
• Collect and document student progress data in accordance with individualized instructional and behavioral programming.

Student Care and Behavioral Support

• Assist students with activities of daily living, including toileting, toilet training, diapering, personal hygiene, and other self-care needs.
• Provide positive behavioral support and reinforcement consistent with individualized student plans.
• Recognize and respond appropriately to students' sensory, social-emotional, and behavioral needs.
• Support student safety and well-being throughout classroom activities, transitions, and daily routines.
• Utilize approved behavioral intervention and de-escalation techniques, including physical safety interventions when authorized, necessary, and consistent with district policies and required training.

Classroom Collaboration and Inclusion

• Promote an inclusive, supportive, and welcoming learning environment that fosters students' academic, social, emotional, and developmental growth.
• Collaborate with special education teachers, general education preschool teachers, related service providers, and other school personnel.
• Assist students in participating meaningfully in classroom routines, group activities, and inclusive learning opportunities.
• Communicate student progress, observations, and concerns to supervising teachers and appropriate staff.
• Maintain student confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism in all interactions.
• Assist with classroom preparation, instructional materials, and other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience working with young children or a demonstrated willingness to receive training in early childhood and special education practices.
• Ability and willingness to work with preschool students ages 3-5, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities.
• Commitment to inclusive education and supporting students' social, emotional, behavioral, and academic development.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary educational team.
• Strong organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced classroom environment.
• Ability and willingness to assist with personal care needs, including diapering, toileting, and toilet training.
• Ability to collect and accurately document student progress data as directed.

Preferred…