Paraeducator (Elementary Grades)

AVON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

For External Applicants applying for a position. Applicants must complete all required fields of the application, as well as upload documents in support of their application, these include a cover letter specific to the position, an up-to-date resume, copies of any certifications, copies of any college/university transcripts, as well as two letters of reference dated within the last year for full consideration.

The para-educator is a vital member of a team that provides a quality education to all students, especially those students identified with an Individual Education Plan (IEP).

Organizational Relationship:

Special education teachers are responsible for the overall training and supervision of the para-educator staff. During service in the classroom the para-educator will also support the classroom teacher. In addition, para-educators will work cooperatively with all other school personnel, and adhere to school guidelines and standards. The para-educator will be evaluated at least annually by the school building administrator, with input from the classroom, special areas, and special education teachers.

Position qualifications:

The para-educator must possess a basic understanding of children's emotional, physical, intellectual, and social needs. There must also be a willingness to openly take direction and guidance, and to communicate with staff, students, and community members. The para-educator should have a high school degree, the equivalent thereof, or a higher degree. Also, the para-educator must possess adequate knowledge of relevant skills or the potential to be appropriately trained for such skills.

Job Responsibilities:

• Supports identified students as indicated on the IEP.
• Works with small groups or individuals under the direction of the special education or classroom teacher in all subject areas.

• Performs other reasonable duties as needed, including:

• assists students (both regular and special education) in ways that will allow them to successfully participate in classroom activities, which in some cases includes activities of daily living (physical support/lifting, toileting, feeding),

• provides reinforcement and/or practice of skills as recommended by members of the IEP team (i.e.: OT, PT, SLP),
• collects data relevant to the IEP,
• implements student behavior plans, and

• promotes an appropriate amount of independence.

• Consults regularly with special education and classroom teachers regarding the IEP and its relationship to curriculum, assessment, and instruction.

• Respects confidentiality of all information pertaining to students.
• Adheres to all appropriately assigned schedule(s), including para-educator duty schedules and student schedules.
• Maintains positive working relationships with staff, community, and students.
• Accepts changes in schedule or assignments in a flexible manner.
• Supervises an entire classroom on occasion. Uphold classroom/school discipline policies in order to provide a consistent learning environment.
• Participates in school-wide staff meetings, informal meetings with building administration, and meetings with the IEP team members as requested.
• Practices professional and ethical conduct, including: being punctual, being prepared in order to provide a positive and consistent learning environment for students.
• Performs clerical duties as they relate to supporting student programs.