Special Education Paraprofessional

Position: Special Education Paraprofessional 2025-2026 School Year

Special Education Paraprofessional (2025‑2026 School Year) at Shawnee OK Public Schools

Job Title

Special Education Teaching Assistant / Paraprofessional

Reports To

Teacher and Building Principal

Site

Shawnee Middle School

Qualifications

• Credentials: None
• Education: Associate Degree, 48 hours college credit, or passing the Oklahoma General Education Test or Work Keys Test. Must have or be willing to complete the Special Education Paraprofessional course.
• Training or
  
  Experience:
  
  Previous work or volunteer experience with school‑aged students is preferred. Assignment may require sign‑language competency and auxiliary aid experience. Paraprofessional training may be necessary.

Job Summary

Performs entry‑level to semi‑skilled duties under general supervision to assist teachers in providing an environment for students to improve self‑care, physical, social, communication, and intellectual skills. The overall goal is to transition students into the mainstream education environment. Under the direct supervision of a certified special‑education staff member, assist certified professionals with classroom instruction, meet instructional goals, and manage classroom duties.

Knowledge,

Skills & Abilities

• Basic oral, written, and business communication skills for exchanging information, giving simple instructions, and note taking.
• Maintains confidentiality of student information.
• Data recording and record‑keeping: performs non‑complex recording operations by hand or computer.
• Mathematics: routine computations using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percentages.
• Reading and interpreting routine written or printed materials such as charts, diagrams, maps, and instruction material.
• Computer and office equipment proficiency, including photocopiers, laminators, and basic data entry.
• File and retrieve documents from an existing filing system.
• Public contact: interacts with staff, parents, and the public outside the classroom setting.

Essential Job Functions (Performance Responsibilities)

• Assist in instruction and activities for individuals or groups as assigned by the teacher. Supervise students during instructional settings, off‑campus activities, and non‑instructional periods such as recess, assemblies, emergency drills, and lunch.
• Prepare, create, and adapt instructional materials. Set up bulletin boards and teaching aids. Assist students with assignments and grade work. Record attendance and complete necessary paperwork.
• Assist with student behavior management strategies.
• Assist students with hygiene, dressing, and bathing functions. Provide lifting and transferring support for students in wheelchairs or walkers.
• Support occupational and physical therapy sessions, and assist students while working with O.T. or P.T. consultants.
• Maintain classroom cleanliness and safety. Assist with student transportation when needed.
• Attend professional development and in‑service training.
• Assist teachers with procurement of classroom supplies and compile student work for home distribution. Coordinate brief parent communication when directed by the teacher.
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

Other Performance Measures

• Excellent customer service and problem‑solving skills.
• Adherence to safety guidelines, including the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan.
• Compliance with dress standards, attendance policies, and work‑habit expectations.
• Creativity and initiative to handle classroom challenges.
• Positive attitude and cooperation with staff, the public, and students.

Physical & Mental Requirements

• Seated approximately 3 hours per day; standing and walking about 4.5 hours per day.
• Frequent bending, stooping, squatting, reaching, and occasional pushing/pulling of wheelchairs.
• Occasional lifting up to 50 pounds for arranging seating and transporting materials.
• Ability to operate keyboards, computers, printers, and other office equipment.
• Attentive hearing of quiet voices and reading of body language.
• Awareness of potential physical resistance from students.
• Follow Bloodborne Pathogens protocols when handling bodily fluids.
• Supervise students inside and outside the classroom.
• Communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Navigate classroom, media center, cafeteria, and campus independently.
• Respond promptly to student behavior with effective planning and physical presence.

Terms of Employment

Length of the work year and hours of employment are established by the District. (180‑day contract)

Evaluation

Performance will be evaluated in accordance with Shawnee Board Policy on personnel evaluation.

FLSA Status

Non‑Exempt

Seniority Level

Entry level

Employment Type

Part‑time

Job Function

Education and Training

Industries:
Education Administration Programs

Job Function Detail

Education and Training. Education Administration Programs.

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