Special Education Paraeducator​/Instructional Assistant - Elementary

Special Education Para educator/Instructional Assistant - Elementary

Waterloo Schools is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Job : 5371580

Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled

Posted: Sep 11, 2025 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $18.29 to $20.25 Per Hour

This position works under the direction of the building administrator and Director of Special Education. It supports teachers by providing assistance with educational programming for individual or small groups of students, monitoring and redirecting students to support academic progress, supervising students, and performing clerical duties.

• Education: High school diploma or equivalency; NCLB compliance – 60 college credit hours, associate’s degree, generalist or specialist para educator license issued by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners or successful completion of the district-approved competency test.
• Computer/technology training: As required for the position.

• NCLB compliance – see above.

• Experience working with students with special needs preferred.

• Knowledge of behavior management techniques; child guidance principles and practices, especially for students with learning disabilities, developmental delays and autistic behavior.
• Knowledge of core subjects taught in district schools including arithmetic, grammar, spelling, language and reading, punctuation, vocabulary; ability to assist with instructional activities.
• Knowledge of safe practices in classroom and playground activities and health regulations.
• Knowledge of core instructional methods and techniques.
• Ability to monitor and observe student behavior according to approved policies.
• Knowledge of district policies, rules and regulations.
• Basic record‑keeping skills.
• Ability to develop rapport and interact effectively with students.
• Effective oral and written communication.
• Ability to handle emotionally charged situations.
• Professional collaboration with staff, students and families.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Respectful and inclusive interaction with all community members.
• Professional and ethical conduct per district policy.
• Excellent attendance and punctuality.
• Professional appearance.

• Basic computer skills: navigation, email, web browser, Employee Portal.
• Intermediate:
  Google Suites, search function, student information systems, Basis Promethean.
• Ability to reach all skill levels if not already acquired.

N/A

• All district staff, students and families.
• Central Rivers AEA personnel.

• Assist in providing instruction to individuals or small groups of students, reinforcing instruction as directed by the teacher.
• Actively participate in professional development.
• Provide additional support to students based on individual need.
• Participate in IEP and behavior intervention meetings when applicable.
• Collaborate to improve professional practice and student learning.
• Monitor and assist students in prescribed learning activities.
• Observe and report progress in behavior, academics or health‑related issues.
• Assist students and parents with guidance, emotional support, and examples.
• Communicate with teachers regarding programs and materials to meet student needs.
• Follow health and safety practices and regulations.
• Help students develop self‑help and self‑advocacy skills.
• Implement specialized student plans (IEP, BIP, 504, IHP) as needed.
• Support Positive Behavior Intervention System initiatives.
• Model and maintain responsible student behavior standards.
• Use instructional time effectively to maximize student achievement.
• Provide appropriate supervision of students in classrooms, halls, lunchroom, playground and other areas.
• Direct student group activities as assigned.
• Assist in de‑escalating student behaviors.
• Implement classroom management system.
• Serve as bus monitor when needed.
• Transport students as needed (primarily TAP Para).
• Follow Board policies, district procedures and contractual obligations.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

• Standing, walking, sitting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, reaching, climbing/stairs, driving, lifting up to 25 lbs, carrying up to 25 lbs, manual dexterity tasks (telephone, computer).
• Working conditions:
  
  indoors, outdoors, extremes in temperature/humidity.
• Additional:
  Provide physical care for assigned student(s), perform physical restraint following district procedures, successful completion of post‑offer drug screening, physical and background checks.

As defined by the Board of Education and the negotiated agreement with the Waterloo Education Support Personnel. Performance evaluated annually.

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required.

• David Nielsen, Principal – LINCOLN – Phone:  – Email: nielsend