Student Center Educational Support Professional; Teaching Assistant​/Paraprofessional

Overview

Student Center Educational Support Professional (Teaching Assistant/Paraprofessional) – Westford Public Schools, Stony Brook School, Westford, Massachusetts

• Job : 5834469
• Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled
• Posted: Jul 15, 2026 12:00 AM (UTC)
• Starting Date: Aug 31, 2026
• Position Type: Full-time
• Salary: $24 to $31 Per Year
• Job Categories: Instructional Support >
  Paraprofessional / IA;
  Special Education >
  General Special Education

Position: Student Center Educational Support Professional (Teaching Assistant/Paraprofessional)

Under the direction of the Classroom Teacher and/or Adjustment Counselor and in collaboration with Student Support Service Liaisons, the Student Center ESP is responsible for assisting students when they are struggling with emotional regulation. They help them access coping strategies in order to support their transition back into the classroom. Support from the Student Center ESP can take place in the Student Center and/or in the classroom.

The Student Center ESP works with students throughout the day in a variety of areas that could include management of academics, social emotional regulation, organization and behavior. The Student Center ESP works with students in all three grades and works closely with the Counseling Department and building administration to support students.

Reporting directly to building based administration and the adjustment counselor, and working under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement with Westford Education Association/Unit E, the Educational Support Professional (ESP) advances the mission of WPS by developing curious lifelong learners who are responsible, empathetic members of the community, demonstrating innovation through a wide variety of opportunities within inclusive, joyful learning environments that embrace their variability and honor their diversity.

The ESP plays a vital role in supporting students  academic, social, and emotional growth within the educational setting. The ESP works closely with certified teachers to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive. All ESPs are expected to communicate effectively with their cooperating teacher regarding student progress, behavior, and any concerns. As with all members of the school community, ESPs must maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with school policies and legal requirements.

Instructional support may include, but not limited to:

• providing one-on-one, small group or whole group instruction to students with and without special needs, reinforcing lessons and adapting materials as directed by the teacher;
• assisting students with completing assignments, projects, and activities, offering guidance and encouragement;
• implementing instructional strategies and accommodations, as directed by the teacher;
• utilizing assistive technology and other specialized equipment to support student learning;
• reading tests aloud, taking notes, and providing other accommodations as directed by the teacher; and
• helping students develop organizational and study skills.

Behavioral support may include, but not limited to:

• assisting the implementation of positive behavior support plans and strategies;
• monitoring and redirecting student behavior, promoting a positive and safe learning environment;
• helping students develop social skills and appropriate interactions with peers; and
• providing support during behavioral crisis, following established protocols and training.

Overall classroom management support may include, but not limited to:

• assisting the teacher with classroom management, organization, and preparation of materials;
• helping set up instructional materials, visual aids, and equipment;
• maintaining a clean, safe, and orderly classroom environment; and
• supervising students during transitions, lunch, recess, and other non-instructional times.

In addition to the core responsibilities of ESPs as outlined above, the specialized ESP's listed have additional duties described below.

In some cases personal Adaptive Daily Living Skills care such as supporting…