ASD Paraprofessional

This position qualifies for a signing bonus up to $1,000

The Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency (KRESA) is a critical part of Michigan’s education system serving the Greater Kalamazoo region and provides specialized services to schools and communities and optimizes resources by centralizing innovative programs and services.  We partner with school districts and the broader community to offer essential programs including early childhood education, special education, career learning, and educator development, ensuring that learners of all ages receive the support they need.   

We are currently seeking a ASD Paraprofessional at Portage Central Elementary in Portage, MI. The essential responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to:  

• Align services with KRESA Core Values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity) and Culture & Belonging principles to engage and serve all students   
• Knowledge of subject matter, students’ needs, and building/program policies 
• Assists with managing difficult behaviors through de-escalation strategies or team restraint when students are in crisis and in danger of hurting themselves, others, or property 
• Collect data and progress monitor student’s academic interventions and behavior objectives 
• Leads and manages student classroom activities outside of classroom instruction 
• Assists in instruction of students as designed by the teacher 
• Provides feedback and monitors the classroom when students are working 
• Performs classroom maintenance (cleaning, sanitizing, preparing, fixing) as required 
• Assists with organization of daily classroom schedule and events calendar 
• Implements rules of student conduct through PBIS and specific program expectations 
• Maintains order in classroom and effectively disciplines students through classroom procedures and protocols 
• Assists students with problem solving when adjustment and academic needs arise 
• Keeps attendance, student records, anecdotal observations, evaluations as required by school and teacher 
• Regular and consistent attendance 
• Other duties as assigned 

Qualified candidates will have a high school diploma or equivalent. Paraprofessional positions for certain programs may require demonstrated competency level (Work keys test or ETS Paraprofessional Assessment) for meeting highly qualified status and/or an associate degree or 60 college credits. Experience working with students with autism or other special needs in an educational setting is highly desirable. Certification in CPR and First Aid is preferred or willingness to obtain certification.

Other skills and abilities include:

• Embraces and supports KRESA philosophies related to our core values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity), Culture & Belonging, and Continuous Improvement 
• Embraces and supports KRESA’s vision of a transformative, equitable and innovative education for all in the Greater Kalamazoo region 
• Ability to interact effectively with individuals from a wide range of identities and lived experiences  
• Ability to discuss differences with colleagues and clients in a manner that supports building positive working relationships 
• Develop and maintain relational capacity with staff and students 
• Ability to communicate and work among a team of colleagues 
• Embraces a teamwork attitude 
• Ability to be flexible and be open minded 
• Be an empathic listener 
• Contribute in a positive way to the environment 
• Organized and able to plan ahead  
• Show adaptability to frequent changes in the work environment 
• Practices safe work habits 
• Uses equipment and material properly 
• Displays reliable attendance and promptness 
• Ability resolve problems 
• Utilizes effective instructional practices to motivate and engage students in learning 
• Maintains confidentiality 

This is an 10-month calendar position in job grade 12 with an hourly rate of pay between $17.30 and $24.95.

KRESA employees enjoy a comprehensive benefit offering that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement benefits through Michigan’s Office of Retirement Services, tuition reimbursement, student loan forgiveness and wellness incentives – all within a supportive and caring culture centered around our values of collaboration, innovation, compassion, integrity, and respect.  

A Great Place to Live and Work 

Kalamazoo was recently recognized as a great place to live in the 2024 50 Best Places to Live roundup by Money.com. Kalamazoo was noted for its abundant family-friendly activities and appreciation for artisan-crafted goods, as well as the Kalamazoo Promise, a scholarship for each Kalamazoo Public School resident graduate that provides up to 100% tuition for post-secondary education. 

Notice of Non-discrimination: It is the policy of Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency that no discriminating practices based on race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation or sexual identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category be allowed during any program, activity, service or in employment. The following position at Kalamazoo RESA has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy: Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. Contact information: 269-250-9200, 1819 E. Milham Ave, Portage, MI 49002. 

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.