The Public schools of Brookline is seeking an experienced paraprofessional to join a collaborative team of educators as part of the Winthrop House Program, a district run substantially separate therapeutic high school program. The paraprofessional's primary role is to provide support to students who have special education needs so that they can access the curriculum as well as non-academic aspects of the school day. Under the direction of the classroom teachers and the director, the paraprofessional provides comprehensive direct care and instructional services for students with disabilities and functions as a member of the educational team.
Responsibilities:
Student Support
- Provide academic, behavioral, and social emotional support to students within the classroom setting.
- Assist students in developing and practicing coping strategies, self-regulation techniques, and conflict resolution skills.
- Implement individualized education programs (IEPs), behavior intervention plans (BIPs), and therapeutic goals as directed by the instructional and clinical team.
- Support students in transitioning between activities, classes, and unstructured times
- Model and reinforce positive social skills, problem-solving strategies, and respectful communication.
Instructional/Academic Assistance
- Support teachers by adapting materials, modifying assignments, and providing one-on-one or small-group instruction as needed.
- Monitor and document student progress, behaviors, and participation in alignment with program expectations.
- Maintain a calm, consistent, and encouraging presence to help students remain engaged in learning.
Therapeutic Support
- Implement de-escalation strategies and follow crisis intervention protocols when necessary, maintaining safety and dignity for all students.
- Collaborate with the program’s teachers and clinician to support therapeutic interventions within the classroom setting.
- Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines regarding student information.
Team Collaboration
- Participate in team meetings, professional development sessions, and training in trauma-informed care, restorative practices, and therapeutic supports.
- Communicate regularly with teachers and administrators about student progress and concerns.
- Assist with the preparation of instructional materials, classroom organization, and program activities.
Skills/Qualifications:
- Experience working with adolescents, preferably in an educational, therapeutic, or behavioral health setting.
- Knowledge of or willingness to be trained in trauma-informed practices, de-escalation techniques, and special education strategies.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to remain calm and supportive in challenging situations.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree and/or relevant experience and demonstrated expertise in the field
- Active QBS/Safety Care Certification
- Prior experience in working with students with emotional disabilities
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
- Work is typically performed indoors in the school facility and offsite at field trips
- Moderate physical movement is required for the job
- Moderate exposure to physical risk is anticipated
- The noise level in this work environment varies from quiet to very loud
- While performing the duties of this job, the employee is continually required to stand, walk, sit, run, squat, kneel, crawl, climb, balance, crouch, talk, hear, smell and see
- The employee must occasionally lift 20+ pounds
The Public Schools of Brookline is especially interested in qualified candidates who can contribute through their teaching or practice to the diversity and excellence of the PSB community.
The Public Schools of Brookline is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Members of underrepresented groups and all persons committed to diversity and inclusive excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.