Paraeducator - Academic Support - Kindergarten

Kindergarten Para educator

This position supports kindergarten scholars in literacy and mathematics and is under the direction of the certified kindergarten teacher. The employee will assist with a variety of instructional tasks and supervision of scholars. The major aspect of the para educator's duties will include assisting with students with reading, mathematics, and other academic support, ranging from one-on-one to small group activities.

Essential duties and responsibilities include the following. This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. Some incumbents may not perform all the duties listed while in other cases related duties may also be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Under the direction of the certified teacher, the para educator will assist students with meeting their academic goals/objectives. Facilitate one on one and small group learning to support literacy and numeracy. Collaborate with certificated staff around scholar learning goals. Maintain and share accurate records of scholar learning and progress towards goals. Develop and maintain a positive rapport with students and staff. Assist the teacher in preparing the classroom for academics.

Report and direct any questions or concerns made by parents or support staff to the immediate supervisor. Practice effective safety and security within individual work routines. Assist with supervision of scholars during lunch, recess, and transitional periods during their school day.

Other responsibilities include annually attending 4-5 district trainings regarding academic support. Work collaboratively with district staff and promote teamwork with co-workers. Assist substitute teacher with helpful information pertinent to the classroom.

Required qualifications include education and experience:
High School Diploma or Equivalent, and one of the following: AA degree, OR 48 College-Level Semester Credits, OR 72 College-Level Quarter Credits, OR Pass the state approved Para Pro Assessment. Additional requirements include proficient basic spelling, math and grammar skills, experienced and/or training in reading instruction, remediation, and assessment.

Preferred qualifications include training in early childhood education, training in literacy, and experience working with students in early learning.

Condition of employment includes passing a criminal background check, completing the district's para educator core competency requirements, possessing and maintaining Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) certificated course, successfully completing the FWPS district-approved Right Response training at the advanced level at the next available time; maintaining current certification at the advanced level through an annual recertification class, possessing and maintaining American Heart Association or American Red Cross CPR and first aid training, and working scheduled hours on a consistent basis.

Knowledge of English grammar and spelling, basic math, positive behavior interventions, Right Response and de-escalation techniques, school board policies, and the ability to demonstrate basic knowledge of modern technology and willingness and ability to increase knowledge to proficiency are required. Ability to work independently and work collaboratively with others fostering a team approach whenever appropriate, maintain a good work attendance record, be punctual, and follow district procedures for reporting all absences, demonstrate enthusiasm, flexibility and a commitment to students, practice effective safety and security within individual work routines, develop and maintain positive relations with staff and service providers, follow written and verbal directions with minimal supervision, speak, read and follow written communications in English, perform basic spelling, math and grammar skills, demonstrate the desire, skill and patience to work with students with special emotional, academic and social needs, which may include violent behavior, demonstrate a caring attitude and establish an environment that encourages appropriate behavior and successful learning, exercise judgment as to when to act independently and when to refer to higher authority, practice ethical and professional standards of conduct including the requirements of confidentiality, communicate effectively with staff, students, parents/guardians, and the public in a multicultural and multiracial community, interact positively with students, parents and staff in a professional manner and demonstrate a commitment for students and their success, continue professional growth.

Required knowledge, skills and abilities related to cultural competence and equity include knowledge/awareness of own cultural identity and how this influences behavior, and desire to learn about the cultural identity of others. Ability to establish and nurture an environment that promotes cultural competence and equitable…