Paraprofessional - Eagle NEST Program

Orchard Farm School District is seeking two paraprofessionals to support students in the Eagle NEST Program (Nurturing Early School Transitions) for the  school year. The Eagle NEST Program is a self‑contained, short‑term bridge to kindergarten designed for young learners with IEPs who demonstrate age‑appropriate cognitive abilities but significant challenges with self‑regulation, transitions, attention, and engagement that interfere with success in a traditional kindergarten setting.

The program focuses on teaching routines, transitions, social‑emotional regulation, communication, and learning behaviors necessary for success in kindergarten.

The NEST Program will start the school year within the district preschool building and provide a highly structured, supportive environment with planned fading of supports and gradual transition into students’ home elementary schools. Paraprofessionals hired for this program will initially support students within the NEST classroom at the Early Learning Center and during transitions into the kindergarten settings. As students successfully transition to their home elementary schools (Orchard Farm Elementary, Discovery Elementary, Two Rivers Elementary), paraprofessionals will also transition into elementary‑based paraprofessional roles within the district.

Orchard Farm Paraprofessionals provide social, behavioral, emotional, and academic support and/or supervision in special education and inclusive settings, including classrooms, transitions, recess, cafeteria, assemblies, and kindergarten integration opportunities. Responsibilities may include support with behavior regulation, sensory needs, communication, and functional independence skills.

Two (2) full‑time positions are available for the Eagle NEST Program located within the district preschool program.

Position Term: School Year (9 month).
Starting Rates: $16.50 – $19.70, depending on certification and experience.
Work Week: Monday – Friday.
View the School Calendar
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• High School Diploma or equivalent, required
• 36 credit hours from an accredited college/university or DESE approved 20‑hour substitute certification course, preferred
• Missouri Substitute Certificate, preferred
• Previous experience working with children in an educational or childcare setting is highly desirable
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with students, parents, and staff
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and take direction from teachers
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine interest in supporting student learning and development
• Proficiency in using technology and educational software
• Basic understanding of child development and educational practices
• Ability to adapt to changing situations and manage multiple tasks effectively
• Background check clearance as required by state regulations

Information regarding how Missouri Teacher Certification or Substitute Certification may be obtained at the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website:(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..gov

• Assist students with emotional regulation, transitions, routines, and classroom participation
• Support implementation of behavior supports, visual schedules, sensory strategies, and reinforcement systems
• Assist students in developing independence with classroom routines and social interactions
• Provide support during planned transitions into kindergarten classrooms and school environments
• Assist students with physical care including feeding, bathroom needs, and personal hygiene as needed
• Assist in managing student behavior and maintaining a safe learning environment
• Follow behavior intervention plans and teacher‑directed instructional strategies
• Support students during group instruction, play‑based learning, and structured activities
• Help supervise arrival and departure of students and provide supervision in multiple settings throughout the school day
• Maintain confidentiality of information about children and their families in accordance with Board policy and law
• Keep teachers and support staff informed of student needs, progress, and concerns
• Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and…