Instructional Paraprofessional

Instructional Paraprofessional

Position Summary

The Instructional Paraprofessional works directly with students to provide academic and classroom support under the supervision of a certified teacher and/or administrator. This position assists students individually and in small groups to reinforce classroom instruction, support skill development, and encourage engagement in learning activities. In addition to academic support, the paraprofessional may also assist with student social-emotional growth and classroom behavior expectations to promote a positive and inclusive school environment.  This position works with the most at-risk students as identified by appropriate data.

Qualifications

Paraprofessionals working in programs supported by grant funds must meet at least one of the following requirements prior to hire (otherwise, candidates may be hired as substitutes until requirements are met):

• Minimum of an Associate’s Degree or 60 semester hours from an accredited institution of higher education
• SAT with a passing score of at least 480 on Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 530 on Math
• ETS Parapro Assessment with a passing score of 460
• Passing score on the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) Basic Skills Test or Professional Readiness Examination
  
  

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

• CPR certification or willingness to obtain
• Experience or coursework in education, child development, or a related field
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to build positive relationships and work effectively with students and staff from diverse backgrounds
• Physical ability to assist students as needed (bend, twist, stoop, squat, and lift up to 50 pounds)
  
  

Key Responsibilities

• Provide instructional support to students as directed by the classroom teacher or specialist
• Reinforce academic concepts in reading, writing, math, and other subject areas in small groups or one-on-one settings
• Assist students with classroom routines, transitions, and participation in learning activities
• Encourage positive behavior, social skills, and self-regulation strategies as needed
• Monitor and document student progress under the guidance of supervising staff
• Communicate observations and student needs to teachers and administrators
• Attend staff meetings, professional development, and on-the-job training as assigned
• Maintain confidentiality of student and family information
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices
• Represent the district in a professional and respectful manner when working with students, staff, families, and the community

This is a grant-funded position. Services provided by this role are supplemental and do not replace the general educational program of the district.

The Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, (including sexual orientation and transgender identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information or any other legally protected category, (collectively, “Protected Classes”), in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities.

WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Work Environment and Health Related Factors:

Physical Exertion Level      Students will require lifting and/or transfer without restrictions.

Time Related Factors:        Overtime Required?  No  

Equipment/Tools Utilized:   Motor Vehicle License:                     Yes__x__  No_____

                                        Personal Computer/VDT/Keyboard    Yes_____  No___x_

Business Travel Required:  Occasional Driving                           Yes__x__   No_____

                                       Occasional Airline Travel                   Yes_____   No___x_

                                       Occasional Overnight Travel              Yes_____   No___x_

                                                                                             Low Good          None

General Work Setting:        Lighting:                                           XXX

                                        Ventilation:                                       XXX

                                        Aesthetics:                                        XXX

                                        Temperature:                                    XXX

                                        Noise:                                               XXX 

                                        Chemical Exposure:                                                   XXX

Physical Requirements       Lifting:                                              Yes

                                       Prolonged standing/sitting:                  Yes

                                       Repeated movements:                        Yes

                                       Manual dexterity:                               Yes 

                                       Eye Hand coordination:                       Yes 

Visual Acuity:                                                                            na

Hearing Acuity:                 Ability to use telephone

                                       Understand spoken instructions

                                       Ability to participate in group discussions

Speech:                            Ability to communicate orally

Sense of Smell:                 na

Note: Physical requirements are consistent with a school/classroom environment.

Oral communication skills are important to the completion of assigned daily tasks.

The information contained in this job description is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and is not an exhaustive list of the duties that may be performed for this position. Additional duties may be assigned.