Educational Support Professional - Special Education

Educational Support Professional - Special Education 1:1

Chicopee Public Schools, Dupont Memorial Middle School, Chicopee, Massachusetts

Starting Date: Aug 24, 2026

TITLE: EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL (includes General Education, Special Education, ELL, Early Childhood, Computer Lab)

TYPE: Chicopee Education Association (Unit

E) Collective Bargaining Agreement
SALARY: Per Unit E Contract
STATUS: Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO: Building Principal for evaluation and classroom teacher for day-to-day assignments

OBJECTIVE: The primary function of a paraprofessional is to perform duties as assigned by the classroom teacher in the delivery of the district curriculum in multiple ways that increase student learning and achievement.

• Work with small groups of students
• Administer, correct and communicate basic analysis of student assessments
• Utilize the conclusions derived from assessment analysis in subsequent instruction
• Instruct students on rules of conduct and expected behaviors
• Bring academic, social and motor issues to the attention of the classroom teacher
• Support class objectives and outlines that align with the district approved curriculum
• Maintain records, attendance and assessments as required by the classroom teacher
• Assist in preparation of classroom materials
• Assist in the delivery of differentiated instruction in an appropriate manner consistent with district curriculum
• Provide timely feedback to the classroom teacher regarding student progress in academic, social and motor skills
• Assist students with activities of daily living, including diapering and toileting needs as necessary
• Be trained or willing to be trained by the Chicopee Public Schools in the knowledge and performance areas identified for the specific assignment (e.g., Responsive Classroom Techniques, Implementation of a Student Behavior Plan, Use of a communication board, Physical Restraint and Verbal De-escalation Techniques, Mathematics supplementary services/programs/support, ELA supplementary services/programs/support, Read Naturally, Linda Mood Bell)

• Work independently by appropriately using directions given by the classroom teacher
• Demonstrate dependability, time management, and receptive and expressive communication skills to effectively perform the assignment
• Build on strengths and act on suggestions in areas needing improvement
• Show flexibility and adaptability to new situations and an ever‑changing educational environment
• Demonstrate sound judgment
• Maintain an effective, professional working relationship with others (paraprofessionals, teachers, staff, parents, guardians, administrators, etc.)
• Resolve conflict well, and seek assistance when appropriate
• Maintain a learning environment that is both physically and emotionally safe
• Assist in the communication and enforcement of federal and state laws and regulations, as well as district policies and procedures
• Perform other duties as assigned by the principal, school administration, or superintendent of schools
• If primarily assigned to the computer lab, support operation of the lab equipment, assist students with software, maintain daily records of student use and progress, and keep inventory of hardware, software, and instructional materials

• High School Diploma required, and additional college‑level coursework;
  Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Pass a DESE‑endorsed assessment (Work Keys or Para Pro) if no college degree
• Bilingual (Spanish/English, Farsi, Russian, etc.) preferred
• Previous experience preferred

• Physical Requirements:
  
  Must be capable of operating computers, copiers, and related equipment; able to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally
• Data Conception:
  Ability to compare and judge characteristics of data, people, or objects
• Interpersonal Communication:
  Ability to give instructions and exchange information
• Language Ability:
  Read and prepare various types of correspondence, reports, and procedural documents
• Intelligence:
  Apply logical or scientific thinking to define problems and draw conclusions
• Verbal Aptitude:
  Record and deliver information, explain procedures, follow instructions; communicate in technical and professional language
• Numerical Aptitude:
  Use basic mathematics, algebra, and geometry skills
• Form/Spatial Aptitude:
  Inspect items for proper dimensions
• Motor Coordination:
  Coordinate hands and eyes while using office equipment and assisting students in daily living activities
• Manual Dexterity:
  Handle office equipment and hand tools with adequate eye/hand/foot coordination
• Interpersonal:
  Deal with people beyond giving and receiving instructions; adapt under stress or emergency situations
• Physical Communication:
  Talk and hear; use telephone; use communication boards and devices as required