Paraprofessional Special Education-Multi Categorical-Kruse Elementary School Job Fort Collins area,Colorado USA,Education / Teaching

Position: 2026-27 Paraprofessional I Special Education-Multi Categorical-Kruse Elementary School

Job Overview

Paraprofessional Integrated Services I (FLSA Status: Non‑Exempt). School: Kruse Elementary – Fort Collins, Colorado. School Year: 2026‑27. Department: Poudre School District. Hours/day: 6.5. Work calendar days: 186. Duration: Ongoing. Pay Range: $19.49–$21.83/hr (2025‑26 rates; may be updated). Benefits: Health insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, PERA retirement, paid time off, short‑ and long‑term disability, access to employee walk‑in clinic and other optional benefit elections.

Responsibilities

Assist the general classroom or special education teacher in delivering targeted instruction, reteaching complex concepts, and reinforcing learning skills in individual or small groups. Accommodate instructional materials to support diverse student needs, including those with learning challenges.

Independently support students within the general education and special education settings by guiding classroom assignments, assessments, and larger academic projects. Implement behavior intervention strategies to address social, emotional, and academic needs, ensuring student success.

Proactively manage student behavior, including de‑escalation techniques for physical aggression and self‑regulation coaching. Support students in developing appropriate social interactions and emotional coping strategies, often in high‑stress situations.

Work closely with teachers, caseworkers, mental health professionals, and other staff to implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavioral strategies, ensuring seamless support for students with diverse needs.

Provide vigilant supervision of students in classrooms, hallways, common areas, and during transitions (e.g., breaks, lunch, recess, arrival/dismissal) including line‑of‑sight supervision when necessary. Enforce safety protocols, assist with crisis response, and serve as a second adult during high‑risk situations.

Assist students with mobility, personal care, hygiene, and health‑related needs, including restroom support, feeding, and positioning, as required. Use specialized equipment and techniques to ensure student dignity and independence.

Independently adjust instructional materials based on the student’s IEP to accommodate students with disabilities, including those with hearing, vision, or cognitive impairments. Utilize assistive technology and alternative communication methods as needed.

Take responsibility for tracking and recording student progress, behavior incidents, and intervention outcomes. Assist with instructional planning, grading, attendance, and data collection to support individualized student success plans.

Attend and actively participate in high‑level training sessions and school‑wide initiatives to stay updated on instructional strategies, behavioral interventions, and legal compliance requirements.

Adapt quickly to changing student and classroom needs, including working with higher‑needs students, filling in for absent staff, and managing multiple priorities under minimal supervision.

Support high‑stakes initiatives, special projects, and urgent school‑wide needs as directed by administration, ensuring a safe and effective learning environment.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent.
One year of related experience.
Experience working with special needs students preferred.
Equivalent combination of education and experience acceptable.

Licenses, Registrations or Certifications

Criminal background check required for hire.
Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) required within 3 months of hire.
Special Education Paraprofessional Academy classes (5 in first 2 years of hire).

Technical Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

Oral and written communication skills.
English language skills.
Interpersonal relations skills.
Mathematical skills including basic calculations and application of basic math concepts.
Bilingual oral and written communication skills may be required or preferred.
Ability and desire to work with students with various mild to moderate physical disabilities, emotional disabilities and special needs.
Ability to diffuse volatile student situations.
Ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of…