Special Education Instructional Paraeducator, Florida Mesa Elementary School, .FTE

Position: 26/27 Special Education Instructional Para educator, Florida Mesa Elementary School, .9375 FTE

Durango School District is accepting applications for a Special Education Instructional Para educator at Florida Mesa Elementary School, 37.5 hrs/week, Monday - Friday. Includes benefits options. Begins as soon as possible

Employee workforce housing available in the 2026/2027 school year!

For the 26/27 SY, this position includes an $1800 one-time bonus for staff newly hired to the school district! (pro-rated for late start)

Job Title:

Special Education Instructional Para educator Pay Grade: ESP Salary Schedule Job Family:
Student SupportFLSA 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 provided will vary based on Individual Education Plans (IEP) and requirements to provide services in the least restrictive environment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• 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.
• Enforces 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. associates 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.

Technical Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities

• 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 reinforcement systems
• Ability to 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
• Ability to develop and provide…