Special Education Instructional Paraeducator, Animas Valley Elementary School, .FTE

26/27 Special Education Instructional Para educator – Animas Valley Elementary School – .9375 FTE

Durango School District 9-R, Animas Valley Elementary School – Durango, Colorado. Open in Google Maps

Job : 5813191

Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled

Posted: Jul 01, 2026 6:00 AM (UTC)

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 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 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. May include getting to and from class and bus stops, using toilets, diapering, feeding, medical needs and personal hygiene. May include working with trach, feeding tubes, and catheterization. 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 Individualized Education Plans (IEP). Assist with documenting when a student meets with therapist.
• Collaborate and communicate with other special and regular educators and administrators with regard to 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 helping maintain student files and class records. Maintain compliance with confidentiality laws including Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (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.

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, & 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
• Ability to assist in developing and support the behavior intervention plans, classroom management systems, and…