Special Education Instructional Paraprofessional, Pathways Program, .FTE

Job Description

Durango School District is accepting applications for a Special Education Instructional Paraprofessional in the Pathways Program. The Pathways Program serves students who are 18‑21 years of age in our community based Pathways to Independence Program. Must have experience and interest in working with students with various disability types such as serious emotional, significant cognitive, and physical disabilities. Position starts each day at 8:00 am Monday‑Friday for a total of 37.5 hours per week.

The position works with the Pathways Program Monday‑Thursday; on Friday the position is based at another school in Durango. Includes full benefits. Starting date:
Aug 17, 2026.

Job Title: Special Education Instructional Para educator
Pay Grade: ESP Salary Schedule
Job Family: Student Support
FLSA Status: Non‑exempt
Department: Student Services and School‑Based
Typical Work Year: 9 months

Provide instructional support and assistance in meeting the educational needs of students, under the direction and immediate supervision of a licensed school professional. Services provided will vary based on Individual Education Plans (IEP) and requirements to provide services in the least restrictive environment.

• Support instructional programs and provide instructional assistance for students in individual, small, and large group settings.
• Assist in facilitating the execution of Individualized Education Plans for students under the direction of licensed staff.
• Implement approved modifications and/or accommodations of curriculum.
• Supervise and facilitate students in the classroom and a variety of settings that may include the lunchroom, playground, to‑from buses, cross walks, field trips, extra‑curricular activities, or on‑the‑job training.
• Enforce district policies regarding behaviors and discipline to help correct behavioral problems and assist in meeting student behavioral goals.
• Facilitate crisis intervention and assist students with problem‑solving techniques and conflict resolution.
• Assist students in performing daily routines, including getting to and from class and bus stops, using toilets, diapering, feeding, medical needs, personal hygiene, and using trach, feeding tubes, and catheterization as directed by the IEP.
• Assist with student mobility as directed by the IEP and student need.
• Facilitate and encourage speech and language development; may use alternative language such as sign language or voice‑activated computer systems.
• Implement specialized therapy programs; work directly with therapists on physical progress and IEP. Assist with documenting when a student meets with a therapist.
• Collaborate and communicate with other special and regular educators and administrators regarding academic and behavioral issues and observations.
• Provide suggestions, feedback, and support to building staff, administrators, parents, and outside agencies regarding effective strategies for facilitating learning.
• Assist the licensed staff by helping with data collection, updating records, and documentation while maintaining student files and class records.
• Maintain compliance with confidentiality laws including FERPA.
• Assist with sanitizing, disinfecting, and cleaning the learning environment.
• Attend and participate in district and building in‑service opportunities and committee work.
• Engage in ongoing professional development.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

High school diploma or equivalent. Basic Skills Competence (minimum 2 years of college, e.g., associate’s degree, or 48 semester hours of college coursework) OR pass paraprofessional test (CDE and ESSA qualifications) prior to being hired.

Experience is preferred but may not be necessary for hiring.

• CPR and First Aid training preferred at hire; required within three months of hire.
• Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training required within three months of hire.
• Colorado driver’s license and school district small vehicle operator permit may be required for some positions.
• Criminal Background Check required for hire.

• Communicate…