Paraprofessional - Alternative Education Outdoor Program

Paraprofessional - Alternative Education Outdoor Program

Position Purpose
The Paraprofessional in our Alternative Education Program plays a critical role in supporting students with diverse learning needs in a hands-on, outdoor classroom environment. This position works directly with students to facilitate their learning and development in an alternative education setting, fostering a safe and enriching outdoor educational experience. The ideal candidate will have a passion for working with students, a strong understanding of outdoor education principles, and a commitment to supporting student growth and well-being.

Key Responsibilities

• Student Support:

   
  • Provide individualized or small group support to students, ensuring they are engaged in educational activities and their unique learning needs are met.
  • Assist with implementing lesson plans and activities related to outdoor learning, such as environmental studies, physical activities, team-building exercises, and life skills development.
  • Offer guidance and support to students in overcoming academic and behavioral challenges, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.
  • Monitor student behavior and provide redirection as needed to ensure a safe and respectful environment.

• Outdoor Learning Assistance:

   
  • Support the delivery of alternative based education in subjects such as ecology, sustainability, survival skills, outdoor safety, and environmental stewardship.
  • Assist in the planning and coordination of outdoor excursions, field trips, and hands-on learning projects.
  • Help ensure students' safety during outdoor activities, ensuring all guidelines and safety protocols are followed.

• Collaboration with Staff:

   
  • Work collaboratively with lead teachers, counselors, and other team members to design and implement educational programs tailored to students' individual learning needs.
  • Attend staff meetings, training, and professional development opportunities as required.
  • Communicate regularly with teaching staff to monitor student progress and provide feedback.

• Behavioral Support:

   
  • Assist with behavior management techniques and conflict resolution in both indoor and outdoor settings.
  • Support students in building social skills and emotional regulation through structured outdoor activities and group work.
  • Encourage positive interactions among students to help build a supportive community and teamwork.

• Record Keeping:

   
  • Maintain accurate records of student progress, behavior, and incidents, providing updates to teachers and administrators as necessary.
  • Assist with the collection of data for assessments, evaluations, and reporting purposes.

• This position is based primarily outdoors in various weather conditions, requiring a comfort level with outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and nature exploration.
• Occasional indoor activities may take place in classrooms or other educational spaces.
• Must be comfortable with physical tasks, including assisting with outdoor projects and supporting students in challenging outdoor terrain.

• Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying.  
• Typical qualifications would be equivalent to: Successful completion of college level coursework or passing of examination as required by the Every Student Succeeds Act.
• Must hold or be eligible for a Special Education Program Aide License unless the individual holds any valid Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (WDPI) License. If candidate does not currently hold said licensure, the application must be submitted within 30 days of employment. 
• Experience working with youth, particularly in an alternative education or outdoor setting, is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of outdoor education principles, environmental science, and/or wilderness education is a plus.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to relate to students, staff, and parents.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a flexible, adaptable, and proactive approach.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on students’ lives.
• Ability to manage outdoor physical activities and demonstrate safe and appropriate use of outdoor equipment.
• First aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to participate in Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) training in order to attain certification.
• Physical ability to engage in outdoor activities, including walking, hiking, lifting, and working in varying weather conditions.

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Retirement fund through the Wisconsin Retirement System
• Long Term Disability
• Sick Leave
• Personal Days
• Paid Holidays

Thank you for your interest in employment with the School District of Bayfield!

The School District of Bayfield does not discriminate in employment decisions based on age, race, creed, religion, color, disability, handicap, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, arrest record, conviction record, or membership in the National Guard or military forces of the United States, or other protected group status.  

The information contained in this job description is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position.  This job description is intended to comply with the American with Disabilities Act; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.