Paraprofessional II - Early Childhood, Study Nursery

Paraprofessional II - Early Childhood, Study Nursery

Springfield Public Schools Alternative Programs:
Study Alternative Center - Springfield, Missouri

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Title: Paraprofessional II - Study Nursery
Department: Early Childhood Department (ECSE, Wonder Years, Study Nursery)

Pay Grade: H160/H162
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Principal

GENERAL PURPOSE
Supports the instructional program by assisting students from infants to preschool in meeting developmental, academic, and behavioral goals, including self‑help skills in the general and/or special education setting; provides instructional support to individuals or small groups across developmental areas; collects data on student behavior and academic performance; and assists the classroom lead with all center and classroom‑related duties.

• Assist certified staff as they implement educational plans, curriculum, and lesson plans.
• Prepare instructional materials and support classroom organization.
• Provide academic and developmental support to individuals or small groups across cognitive, social‑emotional, physical, and language domains.
• Reinforce learning concepts and help students achieve academic, behavioral, and self‑help goals.
• Implement behavior support strategies and interventions as directed.
• Monitor, document, and report on student behavior and performance.
• Communicate regularly with instructional staff about student progress and needs.
• Collaborate with the classroom lead, service providers, and team members to support student success.
• Model and promote respectful, positive interactions with students and families.
• Supervise and escort students to ensure safety during transitions and activities.
• Assist with personal care routines, including feeding, toileting, and hygiene.
• Report safety concerns to appropriate personnel and help maintain a safe, clean, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and information.
• Participate in staff planning meetings, trainings, and professional development.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the center leader or certified staff.

Education and Experience

• Minimum of 60 college hours completed or completion from a DESE approved Substitute Training program.
• Job related experience preferred.

Certificates, Licenses and Other Special Requirements

• Must obtain and maintain Missouri Substitute Teaching Certificate.
• Obtain and maintain physical intervention training.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.
• Must pass a Criminal Background Clearance, the results of which must be satisfactory to the District.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of basic math, including calculations using fractions, percentages, and/or ratios; read a variety of manuals, write documents following prescribed formats, and/or present information to others; and analyze situations to define issues and draw conclusions.
• Knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include child guidance principles and practices, especially as they relate to students with learning disabilities; instructional materials and techniques used in Special Education; safe practices in classroom and other activities; correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; reading and writing communication skills; and record keeping techniques.
• Skill to perform multiple, technical tasks with a need to routinely upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions.
• Skill-based competencies required to perform the functions of the job, including operating standard office equipment including using pertinent software applications; and preparing and maintaining accurate records.
• Ability to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups.
• Ability to adhere to safety practices; meet deadlines and schedules; work under time constraints; and communicate with diverse groups.

• Work environment is primarily inside, where the noise and temperature levels are moderate.
• The work is medium work that requires exerting up to 50 pounds of…