Paraeducator - High Needs (Autism, 1:1)

Holyoke Public Schools (HPS) serves 5,300 students in 11 schools and employs nearly 1000 people. This is an exciting time of change and transformation at HPS. Although there are many strengths within the District and many students graduate college and career ready, last year, HPS was placed in receivership by the State of Massachusetts, due to chronically struggling performance well below the state average. The State appointed Dr. Stephen Zrike, a seasoned Massachusetts educator, as Receiver, to lead this exciting turnaround effort, which includes significant autonomy and flexibility from the traditional school system. For more information about the HPS Turnaround Plan, please visit: http://www.hps.holyoke.ma.us/turnaroundplan.htm.

Job description:

• Works 1:1 implementing ABA strategies and daily data collection

• Works with an individual student to reinforce learning of materials or skills initially introduced by the teacher/therapist, and specialists

• Operates and cares for equipment used in the classroom for instructional purposes.

• Help students master equipment and/or instructional materials assigned by the teacher/therapist and specialists.

• Assists in the implementation of behavioral modification programs as directed and supervised by the teacher. Keep behavioral logs and data (daily and weekly).

• Assists with the supervision of students during emergency drills, assemblies, play periods, and field trips.

• Assists students with mobility and personal care.

• Assists with lunch, snack and cleanup routines.

• Dress for physical education activities so you can assist students. (Holyoke High School only)

• Meets the buses and assist students in breakfast and lunch routines

• Assists with wash-ups and toilet routines, diapering and tooth brushing.

• Ability to collaborate with to ensure support for students in the classroom.

• Other duties as assigned by Superintendent and/or Principal

Qualifications:

• Associate's Degree or higher; OR Completing at least two years, or 48 credit hours of study at an institution of higher education; OR taking and passing a formal assessment measuring one's knowledge of and ability to assist classroom teachers in reading, writing, and mathematics. (WorkKeys or Parapro Assessment)

• Training or experience working with Special Needs Students preferred

• Experience working in an urban setting, preferred

• Experience working with diverse student populations, preferred

• Ability to read, interpret, and apply student performance data to instructional planning and execution

• Strong written and verbal communication skills; excellent teamwork skills

• Bilingual applicants (Spanish) strongly encouraged to apply