Paraeducator-Special Education

PARA educator—Special Education

Under the direction of the Principal and the Director of Special Education, a PARA educator assists a certificated teacher in reinforcing instruction, providing medical assistance, and supporting students with special needs in various settings.

• Assist a certificated teacher in reinforcing instruction to individual or small groups of students with special needs in classroom or other learning environments.
• Monitor and assist students during drills, practices, and assignments across various subjects.
• Support the implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), behavior intervention plans, lesson plans, curriculum, and teaching methodologies.
• Provide general medical assistance and health care, administer medication, first aid, CPR per established procedures.
• Assist in shaping student behavior through redirection, positive reinforcement, and behavior modification strategies.
• Help students focus on work, complete classroom assignments, and develop independent living and self‑help skills.
• Observe and support student behavior in classroom, physical education courses, lunch, library, recess, and field trips.
• Perform clerical duties such as preparing, typing, duplicating, and filing instructional materials and maintaining confidentiality of student records.
• Assist with technology set‑up, classroom equipment, and distribution of supplies.
• Communicate with staff regarding IEPs and resolve issues, but refrain from direct communication with parents.
• Assist with testing activities and monitor students during state and other assessments.
• Attend meetings, in‑services, and maintain knowledge of emergency procedures, first aid, CPR, and other relevant areas.

• Assist in the preparation of meals during the school day.
• Ensure a clean and appropriate learning environment for assigned students.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

• Education and Experience: Graduation from secondary school or equivalent GED and one year of experience working with children in an organized setting.
• Special Qualifications (Title I sites):
  • Successful completion of a rigorous academic assessment demonstrating reading, writing, mathematics, or other core subjects.
  • Completed at least two years of study at a higher education institution.
  • Obtained an associate’s or higher degree.
• Licenses and Requirements:
  • Valid First Aid and CPR certificates issued by an authorized agency.
  • Some positions may require training in Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) techniques.
• Knowledge of:
  • Child guidance principles and practices for students with special needs.
  • District special education instructional and behavioral support programs.
  • Basic IEP and behavior intervention plans, terminology, goals, and objectives.
  • Basic instructional methods and subjects taught.
  • Safe practices in classroom and playground activities.
  • Operation of standard office and classroom equipment, including computers.
  • Oral and written communication skills and interpersonal etiquette.
  • Basic record-keeping, report preparation, and confidentiality of student information.
• Ability to:
  • Move flexibly between settings.
  • Implement research‑based practices and assist instruction.
  • Prepare instructional materials and implement IEPs.
  • Perform clerical duties, including typing, filing, and data sheet creation.
  • Understand and relate to students with special needs.
  • Maintain effective working relationships with colleagues.
  • Communicate orally and in writing.
  • Administer first aid, CPR, medication, and toileting programs.
  • Support student independence and behavior/social programs.

Applicants who meet the above employment standards will be invited to participate in the testing process. Testing is scheduled on the first and last Wednesdays of each month from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, walk‑in basis.