Para - SPED Functional Academics - 20273110

Para - SPED Functional Academics -

Job : 5812250

Final date to receive applications: Jul 08, 2026 4:00 PM (Pacific Standard Time)

Starting Date: Sep 2, 2026

Special Education Para educator II supporting students with special needs in an elementary or secondary setting. Job incumbents work under the general direction of the building administrator and specific direction of the classroom teacher. Primary responsibilities include instruction, behavior management, preparation of classroom materials, and primary care of life skills students such as lifting, toileting, washing and feeding.

• Assist with IEP preparation, monitoring due process timelines and re‑evaluations.
• Support preparation & implementation of behavior management strategies, educational and vocational instruction, and vocational placement programs.
• Instruct students in large or small groups or one‑to‑one as assigned.
• Assist with students’ hygiene and personal needs, including lifting, toileting, washing, feeding, and administering medication or medical treatments under nursing supervision.
• Assist with assessment administration and prepare materials for student, teacher, and parents.
• Maintain classroom during teacher absence and supervise students during lunch, recess, on and off the bus, assembly, and other school locations.
• Use personal computer for data entry, correspondence, and report generation.
• Maintain student records, attendance, schedules, and reports; monitor three‑year evaluations for state compliance.
• Transport and accompany students on field trips and other outings as needed.
• Assist with profile development for education and vocation planning.
• Work with high‑risk students who display significant behavior concerns.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED). Must also meet one of the following:
• Passing score on a Washington‑approved assessment.
• Associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university.
• 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits at the 100 level or higher.
• Completed apprenticeship in a para educator program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council.
• Two (2) years of successful work experience with special education students.

Board‑Approved Assessments

• ETS Para Pro – score ≥ 455.
• Pearson Paraprofessional – score ≥ 220.
• Master Teacher Inc. – score ≥ 65 %. Must pass both assessments to be certified.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of classroom and behavior management techniques, special education terminology, lifting, toileting, feeding, restraint, and verbal de‑escalation.
• Ability to work independently, learn equipment procedures, and handle confidential information in compliance with FERPA and HIPAA.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds and execute proper lifting techniques.
• Strong communication skills with students, parents, guardians, volunteers, teachers, and staff from diverse backgrounds.
• Adaptability to varying working conditions and learning new medical intervention techniques under professional direction.

Certification & Licenses

• Fingerprinting and background check.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Completion of district‑provided Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) unless exempt (Bus Para, In‑School Suspension Para, Library Para, Preschool Para).
• Right Response training within 90 days of hire.
• For Joint Base Lewis‑McChord locations: maintain JBLM access in compliance with REAL  installation requirements.

Desirable Qualifications

• College credits majoring in education, psychology, counseling, behavior intervention, or social work.
• Three or more years of para educator experience in a public‑school setting.

Work performed in regular school buildings. Requires ability to sit or stand for prolonged periods, use fingers, hands, and arms, and tolerate loud noises. Must lift or move 25–50 pounds and occasionally work outdoors in variable weather or hazardous conditions. Exposure to blood, infectious materials, or chemicals may occur.

Hourly wage range $28.21–$31.59. Eligible for medical, dental, vision, long‑term disability, and basic life insurance if working ≥630 hours per school year. Retirement through Washington State Department of Retirement Systems. Optional 403(b) and 457 deferred compensation plans.

The district does not discriminate based on sex, race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other protected status. All positions, including the military and student applicants, are evaluated solely on qualifications.

• Citizenship, residency, or work visa required.

• Recruitment Services
• 10903 Gravelly Lake Drive SW, Lakewood, Washington 98499
• Phone: 253‑583‑5082
• Email:
  Recruit.wa.us