Early Childhood Special Education Paraprofessional

Deadline: October 14, 2026
District/Organization: East Lansing Public Schools Human Resources
Position/Type: Other, full time
Salary: $17.44 - $22.86 per hour (pursuant to ELESPA contract based on experience)

Come Join Our Team!

POSITION: Early Childhood Special Education Paraprofessional - 1.0 FTE

SALARY: $17.44 - $22.86 per hour (pursuant to ELESPA contract based on experience)

WORK YEAR: 26/27 School Year

START DATE: ASAP

Final date to receive applications: October 14, 2026

General Summary

In alignment with the established policies and procedures of the East Lansing Public School District, the Early Childhood Special Education Paraprofessional is responsible for supporting students in their academic, behavioral, communication, and social development under the direction of the classroom teacher. The duties listed below are not intended to be all-inclusive; rather, they are representative of some of the primary responsibilities associated with this position.

About the Role

• Supports students in developing communication, academic, behavioral, and social skills.
• Models and reinforces language at each student’s individual language level and supports early language development.
• Implements visual schedules, visual prompts, and other strategies to support students in following directions and completing activities.
• Implements individual student behavior support plans and uses positive behavior support strategies to promote appropriate behavior and student engagement.
• Observes student behaviors, documents and reports observations, brings concerns to the attention of the teacher, and supports students in appropriately modifying their behavior.
• Monitors student participation and interactions, supports students with self-checking activities, and maintains related records.
• Provides individual tutoring and supports small-group instruction in various skill areas as directed by the classroom teacher.
• Assists the classroom teacher in assessing and documenting student progress.
• Observes and identifies individual student learning styles and adjusts tutoring and instructional techniques to accommodate student needs.
• Collaborates with teachers, related service providers, and other members of the educational team to support student needs and educational goals.
• Organizes and prepares instructional materials, student materials, and supplies and reproduces materials as needed.
• Operates and organizes instructional, office, and audiovisual equipment and uses available technology to support instruction and student learning.
• Performs routine record-keeping and other clerical duties related to student support and classroom activities.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities normally assigned to support personnel as directed by the classroom teacher or administrator.

Education, Knowledge and Skills Required

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Knowledge and experience with implementing individual student behavior support plans required.
• Knowledge of early language development, communication strategies, visual supports, and positive behavior supports.
• Experience working with students at the assigned age level and supporting students with varying learning styles and needs.
• The demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, related service providers, families, and other members of the educational team.
• The demonstrated ability to use basic office and audiovisual equipment is required.
• The demonstrated ability to communicate verbally and in writing is required.
• The demonstrated ability to work with students at varying age/developmental levels is required.
• The demonstrated ability to work with computer programs including basic word processing is desired.
• Training in CPI, behavior supports, communication strategies, or related areas preferred.
• The ability to push and/or pull up to 220 pounds on a wheeled cart is required.

About Us – Why Join ELPS

East Lansing Public Schools is a high-achieving, diverse district committed to excellence, equity, and belonging. Located in a vibrant university community and neighboring Michigan State University, ELPS benefits from multiple partnerships that enrich learning opportunities for students and staff. We offer rigorous academic programs, a strong commitment to the arts and athletics, and a focus on preparing students for college, careers, and civic life.

Our dedicated staff foster inclusive, supportive learning environments where every student is valued and empowered to…