JOB SUMMARY:

Dassel-Cokato Public Schools is seeking an Early Childhood Paraprofessional for the Fall of 2026.

This position supports early learners (ages 3–5) in our Early Childhood Center, including Preschool, Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE), and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) classrooms. Working under the direction of the Early Childhood Coordinator and licensed teaching staff, the paraprofessional assists with daily classroom routines, provides instructional and social-emotional support, and helps maintain a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment.

WORK SKILLS AND CHARACTERISTICS

Skills required to perform the essential functions of the job:

Student Support: Assists students individually or in small groups with learning tasks, play-based activities, and targeted skill practice.
Classroom Management & Routines: Helps guide positive behavior, assists children with self-regulation, and coaches students through classroom routines and transitions.
Supervision & Safety: Actively supervises students in classroom settings, hallways, restrooms, playgrounds, and during arrival and dismissal (including bus duty).
Materials & Preparation: Prepares visual aids, crafts, adapted learning tools, and activity centers as directed by the teacher.
Data & Observation: Observes children during activities and takes brief notes to assist the teaching team with progress tracking and planning.
Family Engagement: Assists in creating a warm, welcoming environment for families during parent-child activities and program events.
Operational Support: Performs daily support tasks such as organizing supplies, filing, copying, and maintaining clean, hygienic activity areas.

EDUCATION AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS

High School Diploma or GED required
AA Degree or 60 semester credits of post secondary education (equivalent of 2 years) or Passing score on the paraprofessional assessment test (district will help support the training for this exam)
Experience working with young children (ages 3–5) or children with special needs preferred.
Ability to pass required state and federal criminal background checks.
Strong communication skills, patience, flexibility, and a passion for supporting early learners.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical requirements associated with the position can be best summarized as follows: Light work, exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally and 10 pounds of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.

Note: This description is a general overview and may vary depending on the specific needs of the department or organization.