Paraeducator – Instructional Prekindergarten

Para educator – Instructional Prekindergarten

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

The para educator will work under the direction of the classroom teacher to support the delivery of developmentally appropriate learning opportunities. The role is a ten‑month, full‑time position with responsibilities to provide instructional support to students and support for teachers as needed. The para educator may be assigned to support any elementary grade level (Pre‑Kindergarten through Grade
5) as directed by the building principal.

• Collaborate with the classroom teacher or Instructional Resource Teacher (IRT) to support instructional goals.
• Maintain a safe and orderly learning environment.
• Assist students with instructional activities and projects and help organize instructional materials.
• Meet regularly with the teacher for planning and evaluating student progress.
• Develop learning activities with the teacher or IRT.
• Guide students in working and playing with others.
• Escort and assist students as necessary, including transportation and special care needs.
• Supervise students on trips and other school‑related activities.
• Assist teachers in home visits to families when needed.
• Participate in family‑style eating opportunities in the Pre‑Kindergarten Program.
• Maintain and update student records and assist with documentation.
• Attend to toileting and diapering needs of students enrolled in the program.
• Prepare appropriate learning activities, stations, and materials under teacher direction.
• Reinforce learning activities using audio‑visual aids and other materials.
• Assist teacher in keeping work and center areas neat.
• Support planned activities with parents.
• Attend workshops and in‑service training sessions.
• Perform other related or unrelated duties as assigned.

• Collaborate professionally with co‑workers, students, and community members.
• Maintain confidentiality as required.
• Use technology effectively to complete tasks.
• Report to work daily and on time.
• Work independently when needed.
• Follow written and verbal instructions.
• Work under pressure while maintaining performance.
• Demonstrate effective organizational skills.
• Communicate effectively in writing and orally.
• Understand programs, policies, and procedures of the St. Mary’s County Public School System.

Required:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Associate’s degree (documents must be uploaded in application).
• Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate (documents must be uploaded in application).
• Five years of experience in an Early Childhood Public School before June 30, 2024, with effective evaluation listed in employment section.

Preferred:

• Related college courses or training.
• Experience working with children.

Full‑time, ten‑month position. Salary based on EASMC‑ESP salary schedule for ten‑month seven‑hour employees – Range 9: $27,999 to $42,351 per year. Bargaining unit eligibility: EASMC‑ESP.

• Dale Farrell
• 23160 Moakley St. Ste 106
• Leonardtown, Maryland 20650
• Phone: 301‑475‑5511
• Email: hrd