K-12 Special Education Paraprofessional SY

k-12 Special Education Paraprofessional 26-27 SY

Administrative Office
- District Wide
- Kirksville, Missouri Open in Google Maps

Job : 5618343

Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled

Posted: Mar 31, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Aug 24, 2026

KIRKSVILLE R-III SCHOOL DISTRICT

POSITION TITLE: K-12 Special Education Paraprofessional

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent required. Paraprofessional certification must be attained within 6 months of employment through one of the following options:
• Obtain 60 college credit hours
• Para Pro Assessment through ETS
• Completed the 20HR Substitute Certificate Course
• Experience working with students or individuals with disabilities preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to remain calm and supportive in high‑pressure or crisis situations.
• Successful completion of district‑approved de‑escalation and restraint training.
• Ability to sit, kneel, bend and move to/from the floor.
• Must be able to lift and assist students, which may require lifting up to 50 pounds.

Contract Days Worked: This is a 9‑month contracted position, aligned with the district’s academic calendar.

Terms of employment: Wage and work calendar to be established by the Board of Education.

Reports to: Building Principal/Special Services Director

Job goal: The Special Education Paraprofessional works under the supervision of a certified special education teacher to provide academic, behavioral and personal support to students with disabilities. This position plays a vital role in fostering a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment, helping students succeed in both general education and specialized classroom settings.

• Provide instructional assistance to students individually or in small groups based on teacher direction and IEP goals.
• Implement accommodations and support strategies as outlined in student IEPs and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).
• Assist in managing student behavior using district‑approved de‑escalation techniques and, when necessary, restraint procedures in accordance with training.
• Support students with personal care tasks such as feeding, toileting, dressing and mobility.
• Supervise students during non‑classroom times (e.g., transitions, lunch, recess, transportation and specials).
• Collect and maintain data on student progress, behavior and supports as directed by teaching staff.
• Foster a safe, respectful and inclusive environment that encourages student growth and independence.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards in all student‑related matters.
• Collaborate effectively with teachers, therapists, administrators and other staff members.
• Attend a minimum of 15 hours of professional development for the first year of employment and 10 hours of professional development each year after the first year.
• Understand and adhere to Board policies and procedures.

Other duties as assigned. This does not preclude the assignment of additional or supplemental duties. The District reserves the right to modify the assignment as needed to reflect such duties.

Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the Board's Policy on Evaluation on Evaluation of Support Staff.

• Requires physical stamina to assist students and respond to dynamic classroom needs.
• May involve exposure to students who display challenging behaviors.
• Work is performed in classrooms, hallways, playgrounds and other school environments.

Duties performed typically in district settings to include the…