Education Support Professional; Special Education: Autism Spectrum Disorder; ASD), Emotional

Education Support Professional (Special

Education:

ASD, EBD, DCD)

Under the guidance of the classroom teacher and the direct supervision of program assistant directors/principals, paraprofessionals aid students in meeting their individualized education plan (IEP) goals in areas such as educational, communication, emotional, physical, and behavioral. They work with students individually and in small groups, collaborating with speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, mental health practitioners, and other professionals. The paraprofessional models and encourages respect, communication, and competency during student work tasks and socialization.

Professionalism, empathy, and a non-judgmental approach are essential to ensure student safety and growth and to help students understand and exhibit appropriate behaviors at school and in the community. The role is performed as part of a team, adhering to District policy and State/Federal laws.

• Assist classroom teacher in providing instruction and managing student educational programming.
• Adapt instructional materials, equipment, or strategies under the direction of the teacher or other professionals to provide differentiated instruction and meet student needs.
• Implement charting, data collection, paperwork, and other monitoring techniques to support student success in behavioral, social, and educational areas.
• Assist licensed staff in implementing classroom management and behavioral interventions to create a conducive learning environment.
• Utilize proactive behavior management techniques, reinforce positive behaviors, use de-escalation techniques, and redirect inappropriate behaviors. May be required to use physical restraints.
• Assist students with daily routines, including arrival/departure escorts, and supervision in areas such as lunch, playground, gym, and off-site activities.
• Facilitate activities with a student or small group under the direction of the teacher, therapist, or related services staff.
• Assist students in developing appropriate social skills and behavior through modeling, lessons, incentive plans, and charting.
• Help maintain safety of all students and the learning environment.
• Collaborate with related service personnel, teachers, fellow assistants, and other staff to meet student needs and maintain a positive work environment.
• Participate in training/in-service as assigned, in accordance with the contract.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

• Willingness and ability to work with students receiving a high level of special education services.
• Must be highly qualified:
  Two years of college coursework (60 credits) with transcripts, an Associate’s (or higher) degree, or a passing score on the Para Pro exam.
• Previous experience working with children and/or individuals with special needs; general knowledge of practices and techniques used in teaching such students.
• Ability to work as an effective team member with staff, parents, and the community.
• Willingness to complete training in Professional Crisis Management and implement restrictive procedures.
• Ability to obtain PCA certification from the Department of Human Services.
• Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication, maintained during high-stress and crisis situations.
• Ability and desire to work with assistive technology.
• Basic computer and email skills; proficiency in core educational subject areas.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and assist with lifting up to adult size weight with a two- to three-person lift.
• Ability to support a student’s full body weight up to adult size.
• Frequent standing, walking, lifting, bending, leaning, and repetitive motions.
• Occasional sitting, stooping, kneeling, and crouching.
• Ability to tolerate sudden movements and exposure to outdoor weather conditions; may involve exposure to blood borne pathogens and use of personal protective equipment.
• Locations are generally moderately noisy.

Intermediate School District 917 provides special education, career & technical education (CTE), and alternative learning for nine member districts in the south metro. Programs are located…