Makerspace Paraprofessional

Primary Purpose
The Maker Space Paraprofessional works independently with groups of students during scheduled Maker Space classes while operating under the general supervision of the campus principal or designee and in accordance with district-approved instructional plans and expectations.
Qualifications

Education/Certification:
High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate
Have met formal academic assessment, associate's degree, or two years of study at an institution of higher learning (if college hours are not held, an academic assessment is available once hired)
Valid Texas educational aide certificate (obtained once hired)
Special Knowledge/Skills

• Ability to effectively supervise and manage groups of students
• Ability to facilitate prepared lessons and learning activities
• Interest in STEM, technology, engineering, design, art, robotics, coding, fabrication, or hands-on learning
• Ability and willingness to learn the operation of Maker Space technology, tools, and equipment
• Strong organizational and classroom-management skills
• Ability to communicate instructions clearly to students
• Ability to encourage student creativity, independence, collaboration, and problem-solving
• Ability to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment
• Ability to troubleshoot routine technology and equipment issues
• Basic computer and technology skills
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment within established guidelines

• Facilitate scheduled Maker Space classes and learning activities using lessons, activities, and materials provided or approved by the district or campus.
• Present directions, expectations, procedures, and activity objectives to students.
• Guide students through hands-on projects, design challenges, experiments, technology activities, and other Maker Space experiences.
• Demonstrate the appropriate use of materials, tools, technology, and equipment.
• Assist students in understanding and completing assigned Maker Space activities.
• Encourage students to plan, design, create, build, test, evaluate, revise, and improve their work.
• Promote creativity, collaboration, communication, critical thinking, innovation, and problem-solving.
• Ask questions and provide appropriate prompts that encourage students to develop solutions independently rather than completing tasks for them.
• Provide assistance and support to individual students and groups as needed.
• Modify the pace or delivery of activities within established lesson expectations based on student needs.
• Reinforce concepts and skills incorporated into provided Maker Space lessons.
• Maintain an engaging, student-centered learning environment.
• Communicate concerns regarding lessons, student needs, materials, or instructional activities to the appropriate campus administrator or designated professional staff member.

• Assume responsibility for the direct supervision of students assigned to the Maker Space during scheduled class periods and activities.
• Establish and communicate clear expectations for student behavior, participation, movement, and use of Maker Space resources.
• Maintain appropriate student behavior and an environment conducive to learning.
• Actively monitor students throughout all Maker Space activities.
• Redirect inappropriate behavior and reinforce campus expectations and procedures.
• Follow campus student-management procedures and seek administrative assistance when necessary.
• Maintain accurate student attendance or participation records as assigned.
• Ensure appropriate student transitions into and out of the Maker Space.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student information in accordance with district policy and applicable law.

• Maintain a safe environment for students participating in Maker Space activities.
• Teach, demonstrate, and reinforce safety procedures before students use equipment, tools, technology, or specialized materials.
• Actively monitor student use of Maker Space tools and equipment.
• Ensure students use only equipment and materials appropriate for the assigned activity and their level of training.
• Immediately intervene when unsafe behavior or practices are observed.
• Inspect work areas and equipment for potential hazards.
• Promptly report damaged equipment, unsafe conditions, accidents, or injuries to campus administration.
• Follow district procedures for accident and injury reporting.
• Ensure required safety equipment and personal protective equipment are used when appropriate.
• Maintain appropriate storage and security of equipment, tools, and materials.
• Participate in training required to safely operate Maker Space equipment.

• Review provided lesson plans and materials in advance to ensure readiness for upcoming activities.
• Communicate with designated teachers, instructional staff, or administrators regarding upcoming Maker…