What are the responsibilities and job description for the Social Emotional and Behavioral Paraprofessional position at Gordon Parks Elementary?
Position: Social-Emotional & Behavior Paraprofessional
Location: Gordon Parks Elementary School, Kansas City, Missouri
Application Process: To apply, please complete our online employment application at gordonparks.org/apply.
About Us: Gordon Parks Elementary School is a small, tight-knit community dedicated to making a significant impact on students and the surrounding community. We value the unique strengths and contributions of each staff member, fostering a culture of collaboration, support, and trust. Our educational approach centers on project-based learning, encouraging creativity and innovation in both teaching and learning.
Position Overview: We are seeking a compassionate and proactive Social-Emotional & Behavior Paraprofessional to join our team for the 2025-2026 school year. This role works alongside our Director of Social-Emotional & Character Development to support students in developing self-regulation, social skills, and positive behaviors. The ideal candidate will assist in classrooms, provide behavior intervention support, and facilitate small-group social-emotional learning (SEL) instruction.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support students in the classroom by reinforcing social-emotional and behavioral strategies under the guidance of the Director of Social-Emotional & Character Development.
- Provide direct behavior intervention support to students, helping them regulate emotions and manage challenges in a positive way.
- Lead or assist in small-group SEL instruction, using evidence-based strategies to build students’ social skills, self-awareness, and conflict resolution abilities.
- Assist with the implementation of individualized behavior plans, tracking progress and providing feedback to the team.
- Serve as a positive role model for students, fostering a supportive and encouraging school environment.
- Collaborate with teachers, staff, and families to create a consistent and cohesive approach to student support.
- Supervise students during transitions, recess, and other non-instructional times to promote positive interactions and prevent behavioral issues.
- Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance skills in behavior intervention and social-emotional learning.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent; an associate degree or higher in education, psychology, social work, or a related field is preferred.
- Experience working with elementary-aged children, particularly in behavior intervention or social-emotional support.
- Strong communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills.
- Patience, flexibility, and a commitment to helping students develop social-emotional skills.
- Ability to remain calm and provide positive reinforcement in challenging situations.
- Experience with trauma-informed practices and restorative approaches is a plus.
Why Choose Gordon Parks Elementary School?
- Supportive and Collaborative Environment: Work alongside our Director of Social-Emotional & Character Development and a team committed to student success.
- Meaningful Impact: Help students build confidence, self-regulation, and positive behaviors that support their long-term success.
- Professional Growth: Engage in ongoing training and development in SEL, behavior intervention, and trauma-informed practices.
- Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a structured school-year schedule in a positive and student-centered environment.
Application Process: To apply, please complete our online employment application at gordonparks.org/apply.
Contact Information: For questions or further information, please contact Mrs. Kirsten Lipari-Braman at 816.753.6700 or via email.
Join us in making a lasting impact by supporting students in their social-emotional growth and helping them navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.
Job Types: Full-time, Contract
Pay: $35,000.00 - $37,500.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
Ability to Commute:
- Kansas City, MO 64111 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $35,000 - $37,500