Special Education AIM Paraprofessional

Somerville Public Schools Albert

F. Arg­enziano School – Somerville, Massachusetts.

The A.I.M Program (Adapt, Include, Motivate) is a specially designed program for students on the autism spectrum. Students receive specialized instruction tailored to individual needs within a substantially separate classroom, with opportunities in the general educational setting when appropriate. The program is supported by a team of clinical specialists (BCBA, occupational therapist, speech‑and‑language pathologist, and counselor). The methodology relies heavily on applied behavior analysis (ABA) through discrete trial training (DTT), errorless learning, prompting hierarchies, incidental teaching, a multisensory approach, and total communication systems.

Generalization of skills and autonomy are goals for all students. Instruction is delivered in 1:1, small group, and/or large group settings with appropriate supports and behavioral plans in place. The AIM program serves children in pre‑K through 8th grade at Capuano Early Childhood Center and Winter Hill Community Innovation School.

Paraprofessionals assist teachers in all aspects of classroom functioning, including instruction and maintaining a safe environment. They collaborate with colleagues to support student learning and contribute to a positive, inclusive school community.

• 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
• 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
• Support students’ emotional regulation
• 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, including sitting on the floor to engage with students
• Use hands and fingers to operate computers, instructional technology, and classroom materials
• Sufficient visual, auditory, and verbal ability to supervise students, deliver instruction, and evaluate performance
• Ability to lift, carry, and move instructional materials and supplies up to 15 pounds, and respond promptly to emergency situations to ensure the health and safety of students

• The School Building Principal and Director of Special Education

• Employment Status:
  Full Time
• Schedule:
  
  208 days – Scheduled School Year
• FLSA Classification:
  Non Exempt
• Salary shall be commensurate with education and experience, in accordance with the Somerville Educator's Union collective bargaining agreement. $54,124 to $70,362 per CBA salary schedule.

• MA Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Clearance
• Fingerprints

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required

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, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.