Para Professional Severely Cognitive Impairment Program

Branch ISD Special Education Para-Professional

The Branch ISD Special Education Department serves students pre-K to age 26 with mild to severe disabilities and works closely with the local schools in Branch County to provide instructional services, hearing and vision services, physical and occupational therapy, speech, psychological, and nursing services. The special education department is devoted to the success of every student. This is an exciting opportunity to become a team member who is committed to the vision of educating all learners while fostering positive attitudes and work habits.

This position is for someone that respects diversity. If you are highly motivated and have a passion to work with students with disabilities, this position is for you.

Job Title: Para-Professional for Severely Cognitive Impaired Program

Work Location:

Varies

Classification: Para Professional

Reports to:

Special Education Supervisor

Part Time Temporary Nonexempt M-F, Hours Vary

The employee fulfilling this job is accountable to the assigned teacher and will support students in their classroom(s). The employee will be held to high standards of accuracy, attention to detail, and timely completion of work. Expectations include a pleasant and professional demeanor, a positive attitude, and an outgoing personality. The employee must also maintain confidentiality and be willing to engage in professional development if requested by the supervisor.

The ideal candidate must have a desire to work with students with disabilities. Previous experience is preferred.

Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent Requirements:
All applicants will be required to provide a satisfactory background check and hold a Michigan valid driver's license.

Mental Tasks:
Ability to understand written and oral instructions. Ability to demonstrate appropriate verbal and written communications when interacting with others. Ability to learn new technology. Ability to give directions and supervise others. Ability to collaborate with a variety of teams and team members. Ability to be flexible in stressful situations. Ability to accept feedback for performance improvements. Ability to organize and prioritize duties.

Physical Tasks:
Ability to lift and move objects of at least 50 lbs. Ability to drive to and from meeting and/or work sites. Ability to work beyond an eight hour day, if necessary. Ability to utilize electronic equipment and other necessary equipment such as telephones, computers or various types, IPAD, printers, copiers, and calculators. Ability to utilize various software and web-based applications.

Adhere to applicable Master Agreement, district and/or building policies and procedures including the staff handbook, but not limited to: attendance, business procedures, student discipline, safety (tornado, fire, lock-down, abuse/neglect procedures, etc.), obtaining parental permission, personal appearance, emergency, accident or illness. Attend all required meetings and submit required reports on time. Follow administrative directives, verbal and/or written. Safely supervise students during contact hours.

Maintain confidentiality. Remain free of any alcohol or non-prescribed controlled substance abuse in the workplace throughout his/her employment in the District. Demonstrate acceptable ethical standards of the profession.

Communication and interpersonal relationship skills expected:
Communicate clearly and accurately when writing/speaking. Communicate student concerns to appropriate: supervisor, other school personnel. Management and organization skills expected:
Complete assignments and paperwork accurately, on time, and without constant supervision. Assist other personnel as needed.

Application of job knowledge expected:
Demonstrate logical problem solving skills. Demonstrate skill in assisting students to meet objectives and in utilizing educational equipment, materials, and resources. Provide positive reinforcement to students. Assist in the maintenance of an environment that is conducive to student learning. Meet specific performance objectives developed jointly with immediate supervisor.

Duties:
Maintain calmness and control under difficult and stressful, emergency situations. Assist in recordkeeping and data collection. Adhere to established administrative policy/procedures in dealing with inappropriate, maladaptive behaviors. Assist the teacher in developing realistic goals for students. Assist the teacher in planning activities to develop individual student…