Position Overview

Rainier School District is seeking energetic, adaptable, and dedicated individuals to join our team as Substitute Paraprofessionals. In this role, you will play a crucial part in supporting student learning, classroom management, and overall school operations across various environments, including general education, special education, computer labs, cafeteria, and playground settings.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

Duties may vary daily depending on student needs and specific district assignments:

Instructional & Classroom Support

Provide individual and small-group academic instruction tailored to specific student needs.
Implement accommodations, modified curriculum, and support strategies defined by Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Deliver computer-assisted learning and assist with technology applications in the educational environment.
Address student behaviors using positive, growth-oriented proactive techniques.

Special Education & Personal Care

Work closely with students with severe physical, sensory, mental, or academic needs.
Attend to personal care needs throughout the school day, including assistance with personal hygiene, toileting, feeding, and wheelchair transfers.
Assist with mobility and accessibility needs (e.g., holding doors, guiding lunch line flow, assisting during bus pickup/drop-off).
Deliver motor therapy activities under the guidance and direction of a licensed nurse, therapist, or teacher.

District & General Operations

Supervise students in non-classroom settings, including the cafeteria, playground, bus zones, and computer labs.
Perform other related duties as assigned by supervising staff or building administrators.

Minimum Qualifications & Requirements

Education: High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
Preferred Experience: Demonstrated experience working with children in an educational, childcare, or community setting.
Physical Capability: Sufficient strength, balance, and mobility to safely transfer a motorically disabled student weighing up to 100 lbs (with or without assistance).
Adaptability & Resilience: Ability to work effectively and maintain composure in a dynamic, high-stress environment.
Skills & Abilities:
- Effective verbal and written communication skills in English.
- Basic proficiency with school software, data input, and general computer tools.
- First Aid/CPR responsiveness or ability to react appropriately in emergency situations.
- Collaborative approach and willingness to work as an active team player.
Training Preparedness: Willingness to undergo ongoing training in area duties, student de-escalation techniques, and physical restraint protocols.

Supplemental Information

Background Check: The State of Washington mandates a State and Federal fingerprint-based background check prior to employment. The cost of the background check and fingerprinting is the responsibility of the prospective employee.
Schedule & Benefits: Employment is on an on-call, as-needed basis. This position is not eligible for district health benefits or leave accruals.
Required Safety Training: Completion of designated Vector Solutions online safety courses and training modules is required as a condition of employment.

THIS IS AN OPEN POSTING FOR SUBSTITUTE PARAPROFESSIONALS - APPLICATIONS WILL BE SCREENED AS NECESSARY.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Rainier School District provides equal opportunity for all applicants and staff in recruitment, hiring, retention, assignment, transfer, promotion, and training. Such equal employment opportunity shall be provided without discrimination with respect to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, honorably discharged veteran or military status, pregnancy, the presenceof any sensory, mental or physical disability, the use of a trained guide dog or service animal, or any other basis prohibited bylaw. We also provide equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups.

Compliance Inquiries:

Title IX & Civil Rights Compliance Coordinator: Kristin Robinson | robinsonk@rainier.wednet.edu | 360-446-2205
Bilingual Programs & ADA Coordinator: Justin Gurnsey | gurnseyj@rainier.wednet.edu | 360-446-7406
Section 504 Coordinator: John Beckman | beckmanj@rainier.wednet.edu | 360-446-2205

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 98, Rainier, WA 98576

Rainier-Paraprofessional Substitute Pool (2026-2027)