Motor Lab Paraprofessional - Part-Time

This position is part time Monday through Friday, 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm.  

The Motor Lab Instructor supports the physical, sensory, and academic development of early learners (Pre-K through 1st grade) through structured movement experiences. This position focuses on improving fine and gross motor skills, coordination, balance, spatial awareness, and self-regulation through daily, developmentally appropriate activities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and facilitate engaging, research-based motor lab sessions for PreK–1st grade students.

• Implement activities that strengthen students’ motor development aligned to classroom readiness skills (e.g., crossing midline, bilateral coordination, core stability, handwriting prep).

• Collaborate with classroom teachers, occupational therapists, and special education staff to align movement activities with student learning goals.

• Maintain accurate attendance, session logs, and progress tracking for students.

• Supervise students to ensure a safe, structured, and positive learning environment.

• Set up, sanitize, and organize equipment and materials daily.

• Support sensory regulation needs through movement breaks or calming routines as needed.

• Model and reinforce positive behavior aligned to the “Wildcat Way” expectations.

• Participate in professional development or training related to motor development or early childhood as required.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• 60 College Credit hours, 

• Pass the Paraprofessional Assessment - Para Praxis 

• Complete 20 hours of online training through DESE - Register for an online training course here. There is a $99 registration fee.  The online training title does not reference paraprofessionals, and is called Substitute Teacher Training.  Substitute Teacher Training has been designated as an allowable qualification for paraprofessionals in the state of Missouri. 

• Experience working with young children (ages 3–7) in a school or childcare setting.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of child development and motor milestones.

• Ability to design engaging, age-appropriate movement activities.

• Strong classroom management and communication skills.

• Ability to collaborate with teachers and support staff to meet student needs.

• Dependability, flexibility, and enthusiasm for working with young learners.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, move, and set up equipment (up to 30 lbs).

• Ability to demonstrate and model movement activities (bending, crawling, climbing, stretching, etc.).

• Frequent standing, walking, and engaging in physical play with children.