Special Education Paraeducator

Special Education Para educator

St. Mary's County Public Schools – Ridge Elementary School, Ridge, Maryland

Job : 5769588

Starting Date: August 18, 2026

Salary: $27,999 to $42,351 per year (EASMC-ESP salary schedule for ten‑month seven‑hour employees – Range
9)

The Special Education Para educator works under the direction of the building administrator, classroom teacher and other school/central office resource staff to provide services and support to students with disabilities and to support the full implementation of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) /Individual and Family Service Plan (IFSP).

• Professionally relate to and collaborate with co‑workers, students, and community members
• Understand and maintain confidentiality
• Use technology effectively to complete tasks
• Report to work daily and on time
• Work independently
• Follow written and verbal instructions
• Work under pressure
• Have knowledge of the St. Mary's County Public School System programs, policies and procedures
• Possess effective organizational skills
• Possess effective written and oral communication skills

• Assist students with developmental needs with adaptive and daily living skills (movement, toileting, feeding, dressing, self‑help, positioning in adaptive equipment/devices)
• Meet with the teacher regularly to plan for and review instructional programs
• Implement instructional/behavioral plans and protocols in accordance with the student’s IEP/IFSP
• Collect data on academic/behavioral programs as directed by the special education teacher and administrators
• Provide instructional/behavioral/self-help assistance to students as necessary throughout the school day
• Maintain CPI certifications when assigned to regional programs (COMPASS, TIDES, SAIL, LAP, PSSE, and Infants & Toddlers)
• Maintain appropriate safety standards while assisting students during arrival and departure times
• Assist the teacher and other professionals in record keeping
• Keep required materials readily available for follow‑up activities
• Operate and maintain equipment specific to assigned area
• Assist teachers with preparation of classroom‑based materials, appropriate learning activities and supports
• Accompany and support students to special area classes, related arts, lunch/recess, and field trips
• Perform other related and non‑related job duties as assigned

Required:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Forty‑eight (48) semester college credits OR a passing score on one of the following Paraprofessional Assessments (documents must be uploaded in application):
  • Para Pro – prior to August 2026
  • Para Pathways – 5757
  • Foundations of Classroom Support – 517
  • Foundations of Classroom Support and Instruction – 519
• For Pre‑K para educators: must have an associate degree OR CDA licensure by July 1 2027, OR 5 years of publicly funded Pre‑K experience prior to July 1 2024

Preferred:

• Related college classes or training
• Experience working with children

Full‑time ten‑month position.

Position Type:
Full‑time

Location:

Ridge Elementary School

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: EASMC‑ESP

Citizenship, residency or work visa required

Employment is subject to the condition that current benefited staff of SMCPS who submit a timely application and meet the minimum qualifications for the position shall be granted an interview and considered to fill the vacancy prior to external applicants being considered.