Special Education Paraprofessional

About Us

The Francis Howell School District (FHSD) is dedicated to providing a supportive learning environment for all students. We seek compassionate individuals to assist in delivering specialized educational support to students with disabilities.

Job Summary

The Special Education Paraprofessional assists teachers by supporting students with disabilities in both instructional and non-instructional activities. This role includes implementing behavior management programs, assisting with personal care needs, and ensuring a safe and effective learning environment under the direction of a certified teacher.

Key Responsibilities

Supervision and Safety:

• Accompany students throughout the school day to ensure their safety and support instructional requirements.
• Assist during emergency drills and implement behavior management programs as designed by teachers.

Instructional Support:

• Assist students individually or in small groups to reinforce learning concepts.
• Support the teacher with integrated students with disabilities, including data collection.

Health and Hygiene:

• Assist with the personal care needs of special education students, such as restroom assistance.

Crisis Intervention:

• Perform CPR, de-escalation strategies, or other crisis interventions as required by the student’s IEP.

Professional Development:

• Attend workshops and training sessions as required by the district.

Other Duties:

• Perform other related tasks as assigned to ensure effective functioning within the school environment.
• Job incumbent is required to successfully attend and document 15 hours of training during the first year of employment and at least 10 hours each year thereafter, as mandated by DESE, as a condition of continued employment

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Minimum of sixty (60) college credit hours required or completion of Missouri Paraprofessional Assessment or completion of Missouri's 20-hour online substitute training program upon hire (paid for by the district). As a condition of continue employment, job incumbent must have and retain a valid Missouri Substitute Teaching Certificate.

• Experience: Job-related experience is desired.

• Skills: Proficiency in assisting students with special needs, maintaining accurate records, and performing various classroom tasks.

• Abilities: Ability to work with diverse individuals, manage tasks, and adapt to changing priorities.

Benefits

FHSD offers a comprehensive employer-paid benefits package, including:

• Medical and dental plan options
• Vision coverage
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• District-paid basic life insurance ($75,000)
• District-paid Short-Term Disability
• Paid holidays

Family coverage, long-term disability, and additional life insurance options are available at the employee's expense.

Physical Demands

• Frequent walking, standing, and occasional lifting.
• Ability to handle various physical tasks associated with special education support.