Paraprofessional - Kohler Academy

Overview

For over 50 years, Kohler Academy, A Bancroft School has excelled at providing a high quality education and excellent therapeutic services to exceptional students with very special needs in a safe and nurturing environment.  The Kohler Academy team, our students and their families make up our community of learners whose priority and focus is helping each student reach their full potential as they ultimately transition to life beyond high school.  

We are looking for Instructional Paraprofessionals to join our dynamic team, to work alongside the special education teacher in the management and organization of a classroom. They will provide positive guidance for students, attending to their physical needs as well as academics and emotional wellbeing. They will also provide much-needed support during instruction time. We are looking for dynamic individuals who enjoy interacting with students with disabilities and supporting therapists and educators. 

Responsibilities

Position Summary:Provides assistance and support to the Teacher in the planning and implementation of classroom instruction to specifically meet the educational needs of the assigned student. Provides encouragement and support to the student to contribute to the best possible educational experience.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Under the direction of Teacher(s) and following regulations defined by the N.J. Department of Education (DOE) and Core Curriculum Content Standards, N.J. Department of Vocational Education, established procedureswithin the Schools and applicable state/local/federal regulations, assists in the planning and implementation ofclassroom instruction within an assigned area of functional, developmental, vocational, and/or transitional curriculum in elementary or secondary education in accordance with the Individual Education Plan (IEP):
• Provides assistance to Teacher in planning classroom curriculum and implements plans to meet the physical, emotional, and educational needs of the assigned student;Provides assistance to Teacher for the assessment of an assigned student’s abilities and capabilities;aids in the development and implementation of lesson plans and activities that are individual-specific, meet the learning needs of each student, encourage increased skills, and address specific IEP goals;
• Assists Teacher in establishing and maintaining a classroom environment conducive to maximum academicand social learning by maintaining order and guiding each student to socially appropriate behavior;
• Assists Teacher in the proper utilization of classroom equipment and materials. Makesrecommendations to Teacher regarding the purchase and usage of new supplies and curriculummaterials;
• Under direction of Teacher, observes and tracks student behavior, gathers behavioral data, performscalculations, and creates graphic illustrations for review by Teachers, clinical-specific staff, etc, to identify and monitor student proficiency and performance levels, to support modifications to current educational program;
• Provides ongoing assistance to Teacher in the management of individual behavior of students to create and maintain a safe and secure classroom environment. Reports any safety hazards, property damage, etc. to Teacher
• Works with Teacher in the utilization of instructional resources and teaching strategies; willingly shares ideas and instructional resources with other classroom staff.
• Works directly with the assigned student(s) in accordance with levels of supervision, the IEP, and the established behavior plan:
• Works with the assigned student(s) and tutors the student in social, vocational, and educational skills necessary for development;
• Instructs, prompts, and/or assists each person in the achievement of educational goals while actively encouraging the independence of each person within his/her ability limit while following the IEP and individual behavior plan
• Accompanies assigned student(s), provides guidance, and participates in school-related activities; e.g., class trips, extracurricular activities, meals, etc. Provides assistance to Teacher in the planning and oversight of recreational activities and educational trips for students;

Qualifications

Education and Experience: A High School Diploma or equivalent is required, along with a minimum of 3 years of direct experience in an educational setting. Alternatively, candidates with 30 college credits and six months of related work experience, or a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, will also be considered. Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities is preferred, and proficiency in sign language is a plus.