ParaEducator: Special Education - Ruth Parker Eason

Title Code:

Para Educator:
Special Education

This position is at a Title I school which requires at least 48 college credits or the passing of the Parapro exam in addition to any other requirements noted in the job description below.

JOB SUMMARY

Assists teachers in caring for the instructional and physical needs of students with disabilities, including those with physical, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities. Performs instructional tasks as outlined by professional staff based upon student Individual Educational Programs (IEPs) and delivery of the curriculum, and alternate curriculum standards, recognizing the critical role differentiated instruction and educational environments play in enabling all learners to gain knowledge, skills, and an enthusiasm for learning.

Assists in individual and group activities, reinforcing instruction, motivating students, facilitating classroom management and working closely with teachers and other service providers on behalf of students to support the delivery of specially designed instruction at the Pre-K, elementary and/or secondary grade levels. Must be able to perform any and all listed duties independently which may vary based upon assignment. The Para Educator's role is to ultimately assist teachers by performing a variety of tasks that are critical to quality teaching and learning, promoting accelerated student achievement and well-being.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

* Implements instructional plans and activities as designated by the teacher, service provider and/or job coach, including demonstration of tasks/skills, and reinforcement engagement.

* Demonstrates patience while working with students, motivating active engagement and encouraging task completion. This includes employing motivational techniques and strategies, implementing Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), redirecting, monitoring learning behaviors and supporting student independence/resiliency.

* Assists in formulating and conducting classroom activities including carrying out planned instructional activities, preparing materials, and setting up equipment.

* Assists/guides students as they transition/travel throughout school buildings/community based instruction.

* Under supervision, complies with medical protocols; including feeding/swallowing and appropriate response to medically-based (seizures) events and/or health and well-being situations.

* Helps and/or provides instructional guidance on independent manipulation of outdoor attire, shoes, personal grooming, self-help, etc.

* Supports instructional programming, including access to the State's Dynamic Learning Maps (DLMs) in the assessment of student knowledge, skills, and understandings.

* Adjusts braces, walkers, and/or wheelchairs as needs, assisting non-ambulatory students and/or students with disabilities who are not independent with personal care (bodily functions to include toileting, bathroom care and/or diapering).

* Performs a variety of tasks such as collating, supporting instructional modifications (alternate education framework/standards), correcting work samples, inventorying, requisitioning materials, maintaining files, keeping daily records on attendance, and collecting data on student performance and functioning.

* Maintains knowledge of appropriate policies and procedures.

* Performs other related duties as assigned within the same classification or lower.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education

* High School Diploma or Equivalency Certificate required; and

* Number of College Credit Hours (if applicable) 48 college credit hours, in lieu of the Para Pro Assessment, required.

* Associate's Degree in Special Education or related field of education from a regionally accredited college or university preferred.

Experience

* One (1) year experience working with children in an educational setting required.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics

* Ability to work collaboratively/professionally to support the efforts of teachers/service providers.

* Ability to assist students with disability limitations that include lifting, pushing, moving wheelchairs, feeding, and aiding in bodily functions/hygiene as needed.

* Effective verbal and written communication skills.

* Ability to maintain confidentiality.

* Job requires direct in-person provision of service, therefore punctual, regular and predictable attendance is essential.

* Demonstrated ability to effectively work and communicate with diverse populations.

* Demonstrated proficiency with business software (e.g. Video/Web Conferencing, Microsoft Office Suite-Word, Excel, Outlook and/or PowerPoint preferred).

Licenses and Certifications

Employee must retain active licenses,…