Special Education Paraeducator Aide HQ

PARA EDUCATOR AIDE III

Highly Qualified Status (HQ):
The selected individual must meet the following requirements:

• High‑school diploma or equivalent
• Completed at least 48 semester hours of credit at an accredited college or university, or an associate’s degree or higher,
  or obtained a score of 460 or more on the Para Pro Assessment administered by Educational Testing Services (ETS)

Assists teachers in special education classrooms with instructional activities, child development, and behavioral support. Provides individual or group assistance based on students’ functional skills and may act as a liaison between general and special education staff. Supports students with intellectual, physical, or behavioral disabilities through attendant services, health and hygiene instruction, safety procedures, and life‑skill instruction.

• Specialized programs: CLS (Comprehensive Life Skills), EC (Early Childhood), MA (Multi‑Age), SIP (Social Intervention Programs), Strategies (Autism Spectrum Disorders), Social Resource, and Resource classrooms
• Title I schools require the aide to be highly qualified

• Assist students with physical, intellectual, or behavioral disabilities in transportation, classroom entry, and learning activities
• Provide attendant services such as diapering, toileting, washing, feeding, and hygiene instruction
• Follow safety procedures, transport students weighing 50–80 lb daily, and perform delegated tasks such as intermittent catheterization and first aid
• Support teachers with lesson assignments, positive behavior strategies, and behavior plans outlined in IEPs
• Maintain classroom order in the playground, lunchroom, library, and during field trips
• Assist with equipment and assistive technology, medication administration (when trained), and record keeping for instructional progress
• Participate in district training and implement non‑violent behavioral intervention procedures
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student information and records

• Early Childhood (EC) – focuses on literacy, math readiness, motor skills, self‑help, communication, and social skills for 3‑5‑year‑olds
• Early Childhood SIP – small‑group setting emphasizing social‑emotional development and behavioral skills
• Early Childhood Strategies – intensive instruction for students with autism spectrum challenges
• Integrated Kindergarten (IK) – co‑teaching model with kindergarten curriculum
• CLS (Comprehensive Life Skills) – provides foundational social, emotional, and cognitive skills aligned with state standards
• SIP (Social Intervention Program) – structured behavior‑management framework for students with significant behavioral needs
• Strategies – focused on language, routines, academic skills, and social behaviors for autism spectrum students
• Social Resource – systematic social‑skills curriculum with a focus on coping skills, transition, and inclusion
• Hearing Impaired (AH) – supports Deaf/Hard of Hearing students with curriculum access, technology, and communication strategies
• Vision Impairment (VI) – supports blind or low‑vision students with adaptations, Braille, and assistive technology

• Any education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the duties outlined above
• Knowledge of educational principles, student behavior, positive behavior modification, basic mathematics, and office procedures
• Proficiency in basic typing/computer skills, record keeping, and use of audio‑visual equipment
• Ability to lift students up to 80 lb safely
• Possession of CPI Certification; must be at least 18 years old and hold a high‑school diploma or equivalent

• No waiting period for medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; WCSD can contribute 100% of premiums
• Sick leave, holiday pay, and vacation pay
• Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) with contribution options explained during orientation
• Salary increases and longevity bonuses

The Washoe County School District is committed to providing a safe and respectful learning and working environment for all students, staff, and visitors. The District prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, and any other protected characteristic. All employees are required to comply with the District’s policies, including background‑check and fingerprinting requirements.