Health and Wellness Paraeducator

Mankato Area Public Schools has openings for Health and Wellness Paraeducators for the  school year. Under the supervision of a classroom teacher, this role promotes student independence and meaningful participation using evidence-based interventions for students with significant cognitive, developmental, physical, behavioral, and communication needs.

Your Role Will Include

• Assisting with personal care needs, including feeding, dressing, and restroom support.
• Supporting student transportation and mobility throughout the school day.
• Helping manage student medication needs under the guidance and delegation of the School Nurse.
• Utilizing evidence-based interventions to foster independence and active school participation.
• Providing behavioral support and de-escalation as needed.
• Supporting students in developing post-high school, job, and employment skills.
• Guiding and assisting students during community-based service learning and outings.
• Performing additional duties as assigned by the supervising teacher or school principal.

Qualifications

• 60 semester credits (equivalent to two years full-time at an institute of higher education) OR An Associate's degree (AA, AS, or AAS) OR Passing the Para educator assessment before the first day of employment.
• Compassionate and comfortable providing personal care.
• Able to perform physical aspects of the position safely.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities preferred.
• Pass a job-related physical screening and a comprehensive criminal background check prior to employment.

Salary and Benefits

• Pay starting at $21.05 up to $22.11 per hour (based on experience in a public school setting).
• Eligible benefits, effective day one for employees working 30+ hours per week: PERA retirement pension, 403(b) retirement matching, medical coverage, fully paid life insurance, fully paid long-term disability, paid sick leave, personal leave, emergency leave, holidays, HSA, and FSA.

Locations, Hours, and Schedule

• West High School: beginning September 8, 2026; school hours 8:45 am - 3:35 pm (6.75 hrs/day, M-F); full-time or part-time, flexible scheduling available.
• Dakota Meadows Middle School: beginning September 9, 2026; school hours 8:35 am - 3:25 pm (7 hrs/day, 5 days/week); flexible scheduling available.
• INSITE: beginning September 8, 2026; school hours 7:30 am - 3:30 pm; full-time or part-time, flexible scheduling available.