KPS Special Education Paraprofessional

K-12 Special Education Paraprofessional

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.

The Special Education Paraprofessional will:

• 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.

The work is performed in classrooms, hallways, playgrounds and other school environments. Physical demands can include but are not limited to:
Exerts up to 40 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 lbs. of force frequently, and/or up to 10 lbs. of force constantly to move objects including equipment such as audio-visual. Frequent walking, standing, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, and other limited physical activities are required. Mental demands can include but are not limited to:
Comparing, copying, computing, compiling, analyzing, coordinating, and synthesizing.

The district's hiring procedures will comply with all federal and state laws, including laws prohibiting discrimination. The district is an equal opportunity employer and hires only citizens of the United States and persons who are legally authorized to work in the United States. The Kirksville R-III School District will enroll and actively participate in a federal work authorization program in accordance with law.

Adoption Date:
November 12, 2025