Early Childhood Special Education Paraprofessional Job Prior Lake area,Minnesota USA,Education / Teaching

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Early Childhood Special Education Paraprofessional

Date Posted: 8/28/2026
Date Available:

09/14/2026
Closing Date: 09/03/2026

JOB TITLE: Early Childhood Special Education Paraprofessional

DEPARTMENT: Student Support Services

REPORTS TO: Building Principal and Assistant Director of Special Education

FLSA: Non-Exempt

START DATE: September 14, 2026

RATE OF PAY: $21.05 - 24.35 per hour - Category C (2025-26 rates)

Terms of employment per the Minnesota School Employees Association Non-Certified Student Support Personnel (MSEA) collective bargaining agreement.

Join Our Team and Thrive!

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that stands out among school districts:

Health Insurance: A rich health plan that provides extensive coverage for you and your family, ensuring peace of mind.
Dental Insurance:
Full coverage options for routine and preventive care, keeping your smile bright and healthy.
Life Insurance:
Protect yourself and your loved ones with a robust life insurance plan
An Employee Assistance Program, free to employees and their family members
Optional medical and dependent care flexible spending account

Supports special education staff and students by assisting with educational activities, providing multi-subject academic aid, and monitoring student behavior and safety across diverse school settings.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Support and monitor students in various educational settings (e.g., classrooms, hallways, lunchrooms, and transitions) to ensure a safe, inclusive, and productive learning environment.

Provide comprehensive support to teaching staff by conducting objective observations, maintaining accurate student data logs, and preparing or organizing instructional materials.

Assist in the implementation of student programs and specialized instructional plans (such as IEP accommodations or behavior plans) as designed and directed by special education staff.

Assist with the personal care needs of individual students as required, ensuring dignity, safety, and hygiene standards are met.

Demonstrate sensitivity, cultural competence, and respect for diversity in cultural heritage, lifestyles, backgrounds, and value systems among all students and families.

Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student records, medical history, and special education data in accordance with district policies and legal mandates (e.g., FERPA).

Promote positive student behavior by utilizing approved intervention strategies and enforcing established school and classroom expectations.

Communicate effectively and collaboratively with supervising teachers, special education staff, and school administration regarding student progress or concerns.

Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the building principal and/or supervising teacher that are specific to the needs of the special education program.

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, skill, and/or ability required.

Education and Experience:

High School Diploma or GED required.

Must meet one of the following educational criteria:

Associate's Degree or higher.

Minimum of 60 college semester credits.

"Highly Qualified" status through completion of the Para Educator or Para Pro exam.

Candidates who do not meet one of these criteria must successfully pass the Para Educator exam within 30 days of hire.

Required Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:

Continued employment is contingent upon all required licenses and certificates being maintained in active status without suspension or revocation.

Required Knowledge:

District policies, procedures, and behavioral intervention standards.

Confidentiality requirements related to student records and special education data (e.g., FERPA).

Basic understanding of emergency response, student safety protocols, and incident reporting.

Required Skills:

Ability to work effectively with students exhibiting mild to severe physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities.

Ability to lift and move heavy objects up to 50 lbs as required to support student personal care or physical needs.

Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills to effectively manage student behavior and de-escalate challenging situations.

Clear and professional communication with supervising teachers, special education staff, administrators, and students.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

Mobility and stamina to work in a variety of indoor and outdoor educational settings; ability to stand, walk, bend, crouch, and move for extended periods of time; strength and physical ability to lift and move heavy objects or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds; visual…