Special Education Aide

Special Education Aide for the Emotional Disability Program Framingham High School - Phoenix Program

The Special Education Aide (1:1 Support) provides individualized academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support to a student throughout the school day. Working under the direction of the special education teacher and in collaboration with the Phoenix Program team, the instructional aide assists the student in successfully accessing instruction, navigating the school environment, building independence, and implementing individualized behavior and support plans.

The district's therapeutic programs for students with emotional and behavioral disorders are for students who have an emotional disability and require a substantially separate setting with specialized staff, a low staff-to-student ratio, and implicit instruction on anger management, conflict resolution, relaxation techniques, social skills, peer mediation, peer pressure, resiliency, and self-advocacy. Additional expertise of a Behavior Specialist and a Social Worker adds to the wrap-around support that the program provides the students and families.

Many students participate and excel in attending general education classrooms with support from program staff.

A $1,500 stipend is available to any paraprofessional who works in an Autism classroom, multi-disabilities classroom, or is on a changing team for a student with toileting needs.

Framingham Public Schools (FPS) is committed to excellence for all students and to creating a workforce that reflects our community's rich racial, linguistic, and cultural diversity. Guided by our mission to empower free-thinking, responsible citizens, we value inclusion, equity, and cultural responsiveness in all we do. FPS strives to provide a safe and welcoming environment where every student and staff member can thrive.

We actively seek educators and staff who are committed to antiracism, social justice, and civic engagement. We strongly encourage applications from individuals with disabilities and from members of historically underrepresented groups.

Framingham Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a culturally responsive, antiracist, and inclusive community where all individuals are valued, respected, and supported to thrive.

Framingham, Massachusetts, is a vibrant and diverse suburban community located 20 miles west of Boston, serving as a major hub in the Metro West area. It successfully blends urban convenience with the comfort of New England neighborhoods, characterized by cultural diversity and a strong community spirit.

A key asset is the Framingham Public School system, which is committed to equity, inclusion, and student success across its nine elementary schools, three middle schools, and Framingham High School. The district is recognized for its dual language programs, comprehensive special education services, and dedication to serving a diverse student population, preparing all learners for college and careers.

Framingham is also home to Framingham State University and offers abundant outdoor opportunities, including Cushing Memorial Park and Callahan State Park. With its blend of educational resources, accessibility, and dynamic community life, Framingham is a welcoming place to live and grow.

Associate (or higher) degree, or at least two years of post-secondary education that is equivalent to at least 48 credit hours from an accredited higher education institution (otherwise must pass the Parapro Test).

Framingham Public Schools seeks candidates whose background, teaching, or service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and belonging in all aspects of education.

• Some experience working with children, especially students with disabilities in the areas of Autism, Developmental Delays, Multiple Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, and Emotional Disabilities, is preferred.
• Additional specialized training in child development, education, or a related field is desirable.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must satisfactorily perform each essential duty. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities required:

• Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to present information clearly and respond effectively to questions from students, staff, parents, and community members.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional literature, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.
• Sound reasoning and problem-solving skills to evaluate information, define problems, collect data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, and recommend appropriate courses of action.
• Capacity to use professional literature, evidence-based research, and ongoing professional learning to inform instructional and practice decisions.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with students, families, colleagues, and the community.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills to work…