Paraprofessional - Special Education

Flathead Special Education Cooperative

Position Title: Special Education Paraprofessional

Job Description

Reports To: Director of Flathead Special Education cooperative

JOB SUMMARY: Assist students with disabilities who need support to access the specialized program

curriculum and benefit from their educational placement.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

95% Student Supervision and Support Responsibility

A. Reinforce specialized program instruction and support for elementary children with Communication,

emotional / behavioral regulation support needs. Provide physical elements of hygiene, bath rooming

clothing, diapering, transfers, occupational therapy, feeding, and social skills

B. Assist students with daily transitions (e.g., transition between tasks and/or rooms, lunch,

Community activities, etc.)

C. Assist the special education teacher and therapists in implementing student’s Individual Educational

Plan (IEP) goals and accommodations

D. Assist in implementing behavior management programs

E. Under supervision of special education teacher, reinforce all instruction

F. Monitor the student to ensure his/her safety and the safety of other persons

G. Foster and encourage the independence of the student. Assist with crisis intervention which will

include crisis prevention intervention (CPI) training

H. Establish a positive and nurturing relationship with the student; and supportive, team player

relationships with colleagues, staff and the Director.

I. Assist in supporting classroom consistency through all routines

K. Assist student during field trips and other outings (e.g., assist transportation drivers secure

wheelchairs when appropriate, on bus/van, assist students with orientation and mobility, assist

teacher(s) in monitoring students for safety, etc.)

L. Collect and maintain data as directed by supervising teacher

M. Supervise and monitor students for appropriate behavior across all settings

N. Maintain communication with Special Education teacher regarding schedules, student progress and

problem solving on a daily basis

5 % Preparatory

A. Assist classroom teacher with preparatory materials

B. Perform related work as assigned or requested including attending professional

development/meetings, in-services and workshops

WORK REQUIREMENTS AND CHARACTERISTICS:

Education/Certification/Licensure:

? High School diploma or equivalent

? Valid Montana driver’s license

Experience:

? Previous experience in working with children, specifically with disabilities, preferred

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

? Ability to work well with students and staff & families

? Ability to work with children of various ability levels

? Knowledge and application of Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) training will be provided

? Position requires exercising confidentiality in handling student and family information

? Operates equipment which may include computer, printer, copy machine, iPad, Chromebook, etc.

? Operates wheel chairs, standers, lifts and or power chairs

Supervision of Other Employees:

? Position does not supervise other employees

Physical Job Requirements:

? Position involves bending, stooping and kneeling while working with students

? Position involves extended periods of time on feet

? Position involves occasionally lifting up to 40 lbs.

? Position involves listening, speaking clearly and visual acuity

? Position involves positioning of students

? Position involves taking students on walks, community outings by van, physical movement

Working Conditions:

? Majority of work is performed in normal classroom conditions

? Position involves occasional exposure to blood/bodily fluids and airborne pathogens

? Position involves occasional exposure to outside temperatures and weather conditions

? Position involves constant exposure to students with special needs

? Position involves meeting self-care needs

? Position may involve occasional lifting

? Position involves risk of occasional physical injury from student and/or emotional outbursts

This description describes the general nature and work expected of an individual assigned to this

position. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as requested by their

supervisor. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate

individuals with a disability.

All Employees must agree to background check

9.5 months a year

Benefits:

Medical Health, vision & dental

Optional HSA

Retirement