Paraprofessional - Special Education AIM

Paraprofessional – Special Education AIM

Starting Date: Aug 27, 2026

The A.I.M Program (Adapt, Include, Motivate) is a specially designed program for students on the autism spectrum. Students receive specialized instruction designed to fit their individual needs within a substantially separate classroom with opportunities in the general educational setting when deemed appropriate by the student’s educational team. The program is supported by a team of clinical specialists (BCBA, occupational therapist, speech and language pathologist, and counselor).

The program’s methodology of teaching relies heavily on the philosophy of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) through the utilization of various strategies including discrete trial training (DTT), errorless learning, prompting hierarchies, and incidental teaching. The classrooms also utilize a multi‑sensory approach and total communication systems. Generalization of skills and independence are goals for all students within the program. Delivery of instruction occurs in 1:1, small group, and/or large group settings with appropriate supports and behavioral plans in place.

The AIM program currently services children in pre‑K through 8th grade in both the Capuano Early Childhood Center and the Winter Hill Community Innovation School.

Paraprofessionals in Somerville Public Schools assist teachers in all aspects of classroom functioning, including instruction and maintaining a safe classroom environment. Paraprofessionals contribute to a positive classroom and school environment and collaborate with colleagues to support students in a variety of ways. They are part of a community of educators who are continuous learners and who share a responsibility for student success.

• Assist with instruction as directed by the teacher.
• Develop an understanding of the curriculum.
• Support the overall management of the classroom and student behavior.
• Provide small group and/or individual instruction under the direction of the classroom teacher.
• Provide assistance and supervision of students during cafeteria time, recess, and if needed, toileting.
• Assist the classroom teacher with the development of curriculum materials.
• Help to create and maintain a safe learning environment.
• Support students’ emotional regulation.
• Collect academic and/or behavioral data as directed.
• Develop and maintain positive, respectful, and appropriate relationships with students.
• Engage positively, respectfully, and professionally with colleagues.
• Collaborate with colleagues to support student learning and success.
• Positively contribute to a classroom and school community that affirms the identities of all students and staff.
• Use practices and approaches that value student diversity.
• Protect student confidentiality.
• Engage in meaningful professional development opportunities and apply the learning from those experiences.
• Understand and utilize appropriate technology.
• Complete required paperwork and duties as assigned.
• Additional duties as assigned by the Principal/Supervisor and in accordance with the SEU Collective Bargaining Agreement.

• Standing and walking for prolonged periods; frequent bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, which may include sitting on the floor to engage with students.
• Use of hands and fingers to operate computers, instructional technology, and classroom materials.
• Visual, auditory, and verbal ability to supervise students, deliver instruction, and evaluate performance.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move instructional materials and supplies weighing up to 15 pounds; prompt response to emergency situations to ensure health and safety of students.

• School Building Principal

• Position Type:
  Full Time
• Schedule:
  
  208 days – Scheduled School Year
• FLSA Classification:
  Non‑Exempt
• Salary commensurate with education and experience, in accordance with the Somerville Educator's Union collective bargaining agreement.

• MA Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) clearance.
• Fingerprints.

• Citizenship, residency, or work visa required.

• Laura Walley, AIM Director
• WINTER HILL COMMUNITY INNOVATION
• Email: lwalleyerville.ma.us

The Somerville Public Schools does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, home status, marital/civil union status, sex/gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, place of birth, national origin, ancestry, cultural identity, genetics, or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, bias‑based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.