Special Education Aide (Paraprofessional)
Job Description
Salary Range $22,532-$40,014 (Commensurate with experience)
Supervisor: Principal
Job Classification: Non-Exempt
Contract Length: 10-months (186 days)
Job Summary
The Special Education Aide (Paraprofessional) will assist the teacher in providing individual and small-group instruction. This position reports to the Principal and teacher.
Essential Job Functions
Assume responsibility for one small group of children during appropriate times.
Assist teacher with instructional activities which include the implementation of the curriculum.
Perform student management and record duties as assigned.
Accompany teacher on home visits.
Assist teacher in the development of a written schedule for play area supervision.
Assist teacher in making regular checks of safety and cleanliness of indoor and outdoor play areas.
Supervise playground and recess activities.
Assist special students with personal comfort and movement.
Provide assistance in maintaining teaching area, securing material and supplies, and assists sick or injured students.
Assist in ensuring that the classroom is a safe and pleasant environment for children.
Assist the teacher in making decisions regarding room arrangement and the planning of activities.
Assist the teacher in guiding, teaching, and facilitating the growth of the students.
Perform other related duties as requested.
Job Specifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required)
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Deep knowledge of the functions and resources of community organizations and social service agencies providing services to families and children in Petersburg or surrounding communities.
Proficient verbal and written communication skills in dominant home language of the families of the desired school (see attached list of schools with languages)
Ability to take independent initiative, while committing to collaboration
Ability to work a flexible schedule including early mornings, evenings, and weekends based on school, family, and district needs
Ability to employ tact, diplomacy, and sound judgement in dealing with sensitive issues and challenging situations
Strong organizational skills
Proficient in the Microsoft Office suite
Ability to leverage (and when needed learn) technology and software applications to create reports, maintain records, and provide data
Ability to create and maintain strong community collaborations
Some experience in developing and/or leading interactive workshops and trainings
Willingness to learn and apply new skills and content
Demonstrated cultural proficiency and ability to lead others in conversations of race and culture.
Deep knowledge and understanding of, and demonstrated ability to connect with the ethnic background of students and families served.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:Associate's Degree or completion of 60 hours of college credit from an accredited college or university recognized by the Virginia Department of Education or demonstrated knowledge of and the ability to assist in reading, writing and mathematics instruction by achieving a passing score of 455 on the ParaPro Assessment.
Experience: A minimum of one year working experience as an Instructional Assistant preferred.
Working Conditions and Physical Demands
The duties are primarily performed in an office environment, with no unusual physical demands. The physical requirements described are representative of those necessary to perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.