Position Summary

Chippewa Middle School is seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and student-centered Montessori Program Paraprofessional to support learners within our middle school Montessori environment. This full-time position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about fostering a nurturing, engaging, and inclusive learning community grounded in Montessori philosophy and adolescent development.

The Montessori Program Paraprofessional works collaboratively with classroom teachers and support staff to assist students academically, behaviorally, socially, and emotionally while helping maintain a safe, respectful, and well-prepared learning environment. Successful candidates demonstrate flexibility, professionalism, patience, and a strong commitment to supporting student growth and achievement.

Regular, reliable, in-person attendance is an essential function of this position, as daily direct support and supervision of students are critical to maintaining continuity, safety, and instructional effectiveness within the Montessori learning environment.

Position Type: 6.5 hours per day, School Year (August - June)
Start Date: 2026-2027 School Year
Benefits: Health, Vision, Dental, Life Insurance, LTD, paid leave

Job Posting will remain open and active until filled.

Responsibilities

Assist the lead teacher in preparing and maintaining a well-organized, inviting, and stimulating classroom environment aligned with Montessori principles and middle school instructional practices.
Support individual students and small groups through hands-on learning experiences tailored to diverse learning styles, academic needs, and developmental levels.
Foster a positive, respectful, and inclusive classroom culture that promotes independence, collaboration, responsibility, and self-discipline.
Provide academic, organizational, behavioral, and social-emotional support to students throughout the school day.
Monitor student progress and behavior, providing feedback and reinforcement to support student success and growth.
Assist with classroom management and student supervision in classrooms, common areas, transitions, lunch, field experiences, and other school-related activities.
Help prepare, organize, and maintain instructional materials, technology, and classroom resources.
Collaborate with teachers, special education staff, and related service providers to support accommodations, interventions, and individualized student plans, including IEP implementation when applicable.
Support students with personal, behavioral, and emotional regulation needs in a calm, respectful, and professional manner.
Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, professional development opportunities, and district initiatives as assigned.
Communicate professionally and effectively with students, families, and colleagues.
Maintain confidentiality regarding student information and uphold all district policies, procedures, and professional standards.
Perform other duties as assigned that support student learning and school operations.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or higher in education, child development, psychology, or a related field preferred.
Previous experience working with adolescents in an educational, Montessori, childcare, or youth development setting preferred.
Knowledge of or willingness to learn Montessori philosophy, practices, and adolescent learning principles.
Ability to build positive relationships with students while maintaining appropriate boundaries and expectations.
Strong communication, collaboration, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
Ability to remain calm, patient, flexible, and solution-oriented in a dynamic school environment.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative educational team.
Ability to supervise students and respond appropriately to behavioral, emotional, or safety concerns.
Basic proficiency with educational technology and digital communication tools.
CPR/First Aid certification preferred or willingness to obtain upon hire.
Commitment to equity, inclusion, continuous learning, and supporting the success of all students.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

Work is performed primarily in a school and classroom setting with frequent student interaction.
Position may require standing, walking, bending, lifting, and moving throughout the school day.
Ability to lift and move classroom materials and assist students as needed.
Regular and reliable in-person attendance is required to ensure consistent support for students and staff.
Position follows the academic school calendar and daily student attendance schedule.

About Okemos Public Schools

Located in the greater Lansing area and neighboring Michigan State University, Okemos Public Schools is one of Michigan’s premier school districts. Serving over 4,500 students, the district is consistently recognized for academic excellence, innovative programming, and a strong commitment to student success.

Okemos is known for its highly qualified staff, engaged families, and diverse, globally minded community. The district’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and continuous improvement creates an exceptional environment for both students and educators.

The surrounding community offers access to a vibrant college-town atmosphere, cultural opportunities, outdoor recreation, and an outstanding quality of life.

Applications accepted until filled.

Pursuant to Public Act 68 of 1993 and Public Act 83 of 1995, selected new employees shall submit to fingerprints and a criminal background check at the employee's expense.

It is the policy of the Board of Education that the District will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, military service, veteran status, genetic information, disability, or any other legally protected basis . The District shall comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination including, but not limited to, Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d. et seq.; and 42 U.S.C. §§ 2000e, et seq.; The Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. §§ 1210, et seq.; The Handicappers' Civil Rights Act, MCL §§ 37.1101, et seq.; and The Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, MCL §§ 37.2101, et seq.; Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), 29U.S.C. §§ 621, et seq. Inquiries or complaints by applicants or employees related to discrimination should be directed to:

Director of Human Resources
Okemos Public Schools
4406 Okemos Rd
Okemos, MI 48864

TELEPHONE: 517-706-5006

www.okemosk12.net

Paraprofessional - Middle School Montessori Program