Paraprofessional

Purpose/Summary

To provide support to the teacher and students in a manner that improves the quality of education in the classroom, assisting the teacher with daily classroom management.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support students' education and social development under the direction of the classroom teacher.
• Implement Individualized Education Plans for students and monitor their progress.
• Provide individualized support for students inside and outside the classroom to ensure full participation in activities.
• Collaborate with professionals such as speech therapists, social workers, occupational and physical therapists.
• Support students with emotional or behavioral concerns and help them develop appropriate social skills.
• Maintain service logs for student rosters in the Pennsylvania School-Based ACCESS program.
• Perform other duties assigned by teachers and supervisors.

Education and Experience

A high school diploma and at least two years of experience in a related field are required.

Certifications and Qualifications

Act 134 Clearances/Certifications are required. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Knowledge and Abilities

• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of educational protocols and procedures.
• Ability to communicate electronically.

Academic Skills

• K-12 Education knowledge.
• Ability to understand, manage, and organize resources to support the specific school.
• Ability to learn new technological resources and tools with minimal training.

Language Skills

• Ability to use language in both oral and written form.
• Effective communication skills.
• Knowledge of the English language structure and content.

Technology Skills

• Email competency.
• General electronic communication skills.

Reasoning Abilities

• Problem-solving skills.
• Multi-tasking ability.
• Time and resource management.
• Organizational skills.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Enthusiasm for the learning environment.
• Quick reaction in volatile situations.
• Maintenance of composure under stressful conditions.
• Imagination, patience, creativity, sound judgment, and logical reasoning.
• Concentration amidst interruptions.
• Effective working relationships with students, parents, staff, and the community.
• Awareness of District policies and obligations.

Physical Demands

This position is considered to be a LIGHT Physical Demand Characteristic of Work according to the Dictionary of Occupation Titles, Fourth edition published by the US Department of Labor. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment

The work environment may vary from office or classroom settings to potentially very loud situations such as cafeterias or playgrounds. Adaptability to all weather conditions related to outdoor activities and/or travel is required.