PreK- Functional Life Skills Paraprofessional (Woodside)

 Welcome to Maine School Administrative District #75

Serving Maine’s Midcoast communities of Bowdoin, Bowdoinham, Harpswell, and Topsham, MSAD 75 is home to over 2,350 students and more than 600 faculty and staff members.

MSAD 75 is seeking a PreK- Functional Life Skills Paraprofessional at Woodside Elementary School to join our vibrant educational community. Together, we can inspire the next generation of learners and leaders.

Job Summary: The Ed Tech provides direct, one-on-one and small-group support to preschool students (ages 3-5) with severe to profound disabilities. This role is integral to the classroom team, assisting in the implementation of individualized education programs (IEPs) and the creation of a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment. The ideal candidate is patient, compassionate, highly adaptable, and dedicated to helping young children with complex needs reach their full potential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Student Support:

  • Provide direct, hands-on support to students with a wide range of needs, including but not limited to, physical, cognitive, communication, and sensory impairments.

  • Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as feeding, toileting/diapering, and dressing, following established protocols and hygiene standards.

  • Implement behavior management plans and positive behavior intervention strategies as directed by the special education teacher and behavior specialists.

  • Assist with student mobility, including transferring, positioning, and operating adaptive equipment (e.g., wheelchairs, standers, gait trainers).

  • Provide consistent and compassionate support during transitions and routines to help students feel secure and successful.

• Instructional Support:

  • Work under the direction of the lead teacher to implement IEP goals and objectives.

  • Assist with the delivery of specially designed instruction in areas such as communication (e.g., AAC devices, PECS), gross and fine motor skills, and pre-academic skills.

  • Facilitate student engagement in learning activities, providing modifications and accommodations as needed.

  • Collect and record data on student progress towards IEP goals, behaviors, and skill acquisition.

  • Prepare and organize instructional materials and the learning environment.

Qualifications:

• Valid State of Maine Department of Education Educational Technician I, II, or III  certification required.

• Valid State of Maine Department of Education background check (CHRC) authorization required.
• BHP Certification Preferred

• Relevant experience working with young children (ages 3-5) with significant disabilities is highly desirable.

• Knowledge of and experience with behavior management techniques and positive behavior supports.

• Experience with or willingness to learn how to use adaptive equipment, communication devices (e.g., AAC), and other assistive technology.

• Demonstrated patience, empathy, flexibility, and a positive attitude.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

• Must pass a criminal background check.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb.

• Ability to lift and/or move up to [e.g., 50] pounds.

• Ability to physically assist students with mobility and self-care needs.

• Visual and auditory ability to monitor students and the classroom environment.

Why MSAD 75?

• Professional Growth: At MSAD 75, employees grow professionally, build strong relationships, and help shape the future of our community one student at a time.
• Supportive Environment: We strive to build an environment that is diverse in perspectives, talents, backgrounds, and experiences.
• Comprehensive Benefits: MSAD 75 offers a Flexible Benefits Plan, including medical and dental coverage, flexible spending account (FSA), 403(b) & 457(b) plans, MainePERS, employee assistance program (EAP), professional development reimbursement, paid time off and more!
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: The Orion Performing Arts Center provides a cultural beacon in the region, offering first-rate live performances and enriching experiences for both staff and students.

MSAD 75 is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, age, ancestry, or disability in its employment or in the administration of its educational policies and programs.