Special Education Paraeducator ECSE; Sped

Job Description

Special Education Para educator – Early Childhood Education

Location: Early Childhood Center – Parkcrest, Vancouver, WA

Starting Date: August 24, 2026

Hours / Work Times: 3.17 hours per day (12:10 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.); 141 days per year (no hours on Wednesdays or Elementary Early‑Release Days).
Position Duration: Permanent

Department: Special Services (Program Support)

• At least 18 years of age and hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must meet one or more of the following:
• Pass a score of 455 or higher on the Education Testing Service Para Pro Assessment (ETS test/PRAXIS);
• Hold an Associate Degree or higher from an accredited college or university;
• Have earned 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits at the 100 level or higher at an accredited college or university;
• Complete a Para educator Apprenticeship Program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council.

• Basic typing and keyboarding skills.
• Experience working with students in academic settings or related coursework in Special Education.
• Effective communication with students, staff, and parents.
• Ability to supervise students and maintain a positive, collaborative environment.
• Flexibility, initiative, and cooperativeness.
• Respect for confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Willingness to learn computer skills, assistive technology, and office equipment.
• Ability to perform under constant interruptions and manage physical demands related to student care.
• Physical strength and capacity to handle potentially aggressive behaviors.

• Provide special education services and supports to elementary and/or secondary students eligible for special education under direction of the teacher or IEP manager.
• Communicate effectively with students, staff, and parents.
• Deliver one‑to‑one and group instruction to meet individual IEP goals.
• Create and maintain a learning environment aligned with curriculum goals.
• Assess student progress, evaluate learning, and collect performance data to monitor IEP goals.
• Assist in administering and scoring formal and informal assessments.
• Implement behavioral management strategies as outlined by the teacher.
• Organize and prepare instructional materials.
• Provide personal care assistance as needed (lifting, changing, feeding, toileting).
• Facilitate use of assistive technology and adaptive communication devices.
• Attend training sessions to maintain knowledge of student needs.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.

• Vision, hearing, speaking – 66–100% of required function.
• Standing and walking – 33–66%.
• Sitting, stooping, bending – 33–66%.
• Reaching, lifting – 33–66% (up to 50 lbs individually; more with assistance).
• Risk of exposure to blood borne pathogens and other infectious materials.
• Running 0–33% of the time.

• Reading, verbal and written communication – 66–100%.
• Constant interruptions, confidentiality, and multitasking – 66–100%.
• Reading documents, writing, and documentation – up to 33%.

Computer, typewriter, copy machines, telephone, and other equipment necessary to perform essential functions.

• Medical, dental, vision, basic long‑term disability, basic life and AD&D insurance through SEBB.
• Eligible for FSA, DCAP, HSA, FPFSA (w/HDHP) and other supplemental benefits.
• Potential employer‑employee funded retirement benefits through DRS.
• Paid holidays and paid time off (sick, vacation, personal, religious, bereavement); additional leave options available under CBA.

New employees will start at the minimum hourly rate within the classification salary range. Employees who have verified prior years of service or similar occupational experience may receive experience credit toward salary step placement.

Evergreen Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal. We provide equal access to all programs and activities.