Lead Paraprofessional
State of WashingtonDescription
THIS POSITION IS OPEN TO WSSB INTERNAL STAFF ONLY!
Duties
The Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) is currently seeking a Lead Paraprofessional!
Position Overview:The Lead Paraprofessional will serve as a lead mentor and department support for our paraeducator (teacher assistant) team, providing supervision, training coordination, and on-the-ground leadership to ensure student needs are met with well-prepared and well-supported staff.
This position will perform instructional support, mentorship, department coordination, and leadership in the following areas...
* Provide structured mentorship and onboarding support for new and developing paraeducators.
• Support paraeducators in completing required training, including the Fundamental Course of Study (FCS).
• Maintain a small student caseload to stay connected to classroom dynamics and student needs.
• Assist in implementing student IEPs and behavior plans under the direction of certificated staff.
• Support paraeducators in managing assistive technology and student equipment.
• Step in to provide short-term coverage during staff absences to minimize disruption to student learning.
• Promote safety and supervision of students in various settings.
• Participate as a contributing member of a collaborative instructional team.
• Support school-wide projects and events (e.g., Braille Challenge, Track Meet).
• Work on special projects or provide other supports as deemed necessary.
• Obtain and maintain Paraprofessional General Certificate as outlined by PESB and OSPI.
• Other duties as required.Qualifications
Requirements:
All paraeducators must meet the following minimum employment requirements in the State of Washington:
In addition, a paraeducator must meet one of the following:
1. Have received a passing score on one of the assessments approved by the board*Hold an associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university2. Have earned 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits at the 100 level or higher at an accredited college or university.3. Have completed an apprenticeship as a paraeducator, in a program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council***Board approved assessmentsThe following board approved assessments assess knowledge and skills in reading, writing, math, and assisting classroom instruction.
ParaPro test informationThe ETS ParaPro test takers must meet or exceed Washington’s qualifying score of 455.
For more information on resources like practice tests and study guides, visit the ETS ParaPro website.
Pearson Paraprofessional assessmentPearson Paraprofessional test takers must meet or exceed 220 (that score is equivalent to the 50 out of 72 scorable multiple-choice questions set by the Board).
For more information on resources like practice tests and study guides, visit the Pearson Paraprofessional website.The Master Teacher Inc. Paraeducator Online Training ProgramMaster Teacher Inc. test takers must meet or exceed 65%. A candidate must receive a passing score on each of the two assessments to be certified.
For more information on resources like practice tests and study guides, visit (link to be provided from Master Teacher).- Successful individuals will also complete the UEB WA certification in braille within one year of hire.
- Previous successful experience working as a Paraeducator, preferably with middle and/or high school aged youth.
- Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing (such as email and digital platforms) with peers, staff, and management.
- Strong interpersonal, leadership, and relationship-building skills to influence and partner with others.
- Strong coaching skills to guide employee development, retention, and engagement.
- Intermediate skill level with Microsoft Office suite including Teams or other meeting platforms (such as Zoom).
- 3+ Years of successful experience working as a Paraeducator with middle and high school aged youth.
- Experience working with blind and low vison individuals in an educational setting.
- UEB WA certified for braille competency.
- College degree or training in education or related field.
- Previously completed the Paraprofessional Fundamental Course of Study and has General Certificate from OSPI.
Note: The full salary range has been posted for informational purposes only. Typically, individuals do not start at the top of the range without State of Washington experience in a similarly situated position as these are considered longevity steps.Supplemental Information
To begin the application process, click the 'Apply' button at the top of this announcement. To be considered for this position you must include the following information in your online application and complete any supplemental questionnaire(s).
- A cover letter and current resume.
- A completed online application profile that includes education and employment history (applications that state "see my resume" or similar language on the application will be considered incomplete).
For questions or information regarding the online application, please email kristina.bader@wssb.wa.gov.
Union Inclusion: This position is included in a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).
Opportunity for All: The Washington State School for the Blind celebrates our differences and we are committed to a workplace that supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital status, families with children (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, status as a protected veteran, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as an individual with the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with disabilities or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We will also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws. A background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competency to perform in the position. You are welcome to include the name and pronoun you would like to be referred to in your materials and we will honor this as you interact with our organization.
Veterans Preference: Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, or other verification of military service. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as social security number. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here. We thank you and are grateful for your service!
Additional Information: The state of Washington is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with a disability who need assistance with the application process, may call (360) 696-6321 and ask to speak to Human Resources or email hr@wssb.wa.gov. Should you have any questions regarding this position, or the online application, please email Kristina.Bader@wssb.wa.gov.