Job Summary:

Under the direction of the Educational Supports and Intervention Supervisor, the paraeducator position works to provide instructional and/or behavioral support to students with diverse learning needs in elementary classroom settings. This position requires a dedicated individual who can assist students in accessing grade-level curriculum while implementing differentiated instruction and accommodations according to students' individual needs across kindergarten through fourth-grade environments.

Qualifications Required:

High school diploma or equivalent; some college coursework in education preferred
Demonstrated competency level (Work keys test or ETS Paraprofessional Assessment) for meeting highly qualified status and /or an associate degree or 60 college credits
Experience working with children, particularly those with disabilities
Physical capability to assist students with mobility needs when required (ability to lift up to 50 pounds)

Desired Skills:

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with students and staff
Patience, flexibility, and positive attitude when working with challenging behaviors and diverse learning styles
Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse student backgrounds, experiences, and needs
Ability to maintain professional boundaries while building supportive relationships with students
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for accurate data collection, documentation, and implementation of IEPs
Capacity to work effectively as part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team
Ability to adapt support strategies based on individual student needs and learning profiles
Initiative to problem-solve independently while knowing when to seek guidance
Discretion and good judgment in handling confidential information and sensitive situations
Emotional resilience and ability to remain calm in stressful situations while modeling appropriate coping strategies
Willingness to engage in ongoing professional growth and implement research-based practices
Ability to receive feedback constructively and implement suggested changes
Basic understanding of assistive technology and willingness to learn new digital tools
Flexibility to adjust to schedule changes and diverse classroom environments throughout the school day

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Provide one-on-one and small group instructional support to students with diverse learning needs in both general education and special education settings
Implement behavior intervention plans with fidelity and collect data on student progress using district-approved methods and technology
Assist students with foundational academic skills including reading, writing, and math concepts appropriate for elementary levels
Support students with personal care needs as appropriate while maintaining student dignity (e.g., mobility assistance, feeding, toileting)
Help maintain a safe, structured, and inclusive learning environment conducive to student success for all learners
Collect and record data on student performance and behavior for progress monitoring and IEP goal tracking
Collaborate in the adaptation of instructional materials to meet individual student needs
Provide supervision during transitions, recess periods, lunch times, and other non-instructional activities
Support students in developing appropriate social skills, friendship building, and conflict resolution strategies
Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student information and records in accordance with FERPA regulations
Participate in professional development and team meetings as required
Assist with crisis intervention and de-escalation following proper protocols, including implementation of trauma-informed practices
Help students develop independence in classroom routines and self-help skills
Assist in implementing assistive technology solutions for students with diverse learning needs
Perform other duties as assigned by the Educational Supports and Intervention Supervisor

Hours and Schedule:

Full-time position following the school calendar (approximately 180 instructional days)
Regular school hours with occasional staff meetings and professional development sessions
Position may include district-provided training days prior to the start of the school year

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

It is the policy of the Schoolcraft School District that no person shall on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, or handicap be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in employment or any of its programs or activities.

CRIMINAL RECORDS CHECK

In accordance with state law and board policy, no person shall be hired to work in contact with children prior to being fingerprinted and passing a criminal records review.

The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the American with Disabilities Act (A.D.A.) and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Additional duties are performed by the individuals currently holding this position and additional duties may be assigned.

fourth-grade

Elementary Special Education Paraeducator