Special Education Instructional Paraeducator, Park Elementary School, .FTE

Durango School District is accepting applications for a Special Education Instructional Para educator at Park Elementary School, 37.5 hrs/week, Monday‑Friday. Includes benefits options. Begins August 17, 2026. For the 26/27 SY, this position includes a $1,800 one‑time bonus (bonus pro‑rated for late start).

• 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
• Prepared Date: 7/1/18, 7/1/20, 5/26/23
• Typical Work Year: 9 months
• Summary:
  
  Provide instructional support and assistance in meeting the educational needs of students, under the direction and immediate supervision of a licensed school professional. Services will vary based on Individual Education Plans (IEP) and requirements to provide services in the least restrictive environment.

• Support instructional programs and provide assistance in individual, small, and large group settings.
• Assist in executing Individualized Education Plans under the direction of licensed staff.
• Implement approved curriculum modifications and accommodations.
• Supervise and facilitate students in classroom and various settings (lunchroom, playground, bus transfer, crosswalks, field trips, extracurricular activities, on‑the‑job training).
• Enforce district policies regarding behaviors and discipline to help correct behavior problems.
• Facilitate crisis intervention and assist students with problem‑solving techniques and conflict resolution.
• Assist students with daily routines (transport, toileting, diapering, feeding, medical needs, personal hygiene, trach, feeding tubes, catheterization, mobility as directed).
• 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 IEPs; document therapist meetings.
• Collaborate and communicate with other special and regular educators and administrators regarding academic and behavioral issues.
• Provide suggestions, feedback, and support to building staff, administrators, parents, and outside agencies.
• Assist licensed staff with data collection, updating records, and maintaining student files and class records; maintain FERPA compliance.
• 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.

• Education and Training:
  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:
  
  Experience is preferred but may not be necessary for hiring.
• Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations: 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 effectively in written and oral form using positive interpersonal skills.
• Consultation skills.
• Assist in developing and supporting behavior intervention plans, classroom management systems, and reinforcement systems.
• Use effective interventions for at‑risk learners.
• Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis.
• Knowledge of developmental, emotional, and behavioral disabilities.
• Experience in data collection and data analysis.
• Develop and provide training related to accessing community resources and behavioral intervention practices in all school settings.
• Non‑violent and physical intervention techniques.
• Use proper English grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.
• Promote and follow Board of Education policies, Superintendent policies, and building/department procedures.
• Grow and develop knowledge, skills, and attitude through professional development.
• Knowledge of first aid skills.

• Operating knowledge of and experience with personal computers.
• Operating knowledge of assistive technology for communication preferred.
• Operating knowledge of and experience with typical office equipment, such as copier, fax machine, e‑mail, etc.