Achieve Program Resource Paraeducator

Position Purpose
Our Achieve Essential Elements Program is part of our self-contained classroom model. Students in this class are delayed academically and socially. Under the direct supervision of a certified staff member, this position will assist students in the Achieve Essential Elements Program in meeting instructional goals and objectives.

Essential Job Functions

• Assists and guides students to reinforce reading, language arts, mathematics, computer instruction, and other skills.
• Works with students individually and in small groups to reinforce basic learning and implement assigned programs.
• Assists professional staff in administering and correcting classroom exercises, tests, and assessments.
• Assists in classroom preparations and strategies for reinforcing instructional materials and skills according to individual student needs.
• Assists with record-keeping procedures to document student learning and performance.
• Assists with classroom behavioral management to minimize disruptions, ensure a safe and orderly classroom, and ensure students are on task.
• Assists students in non-instructional areas, such as supervising the student lunch programs, corridor, study hall, and other related non-instructional areas.
• Accompany students on field trips for the purpose of assisting with supervision.
• Constructs, copies, distributes, and uses educational materials as needed.
• Assists students with special needs in all aspects of classroom instruction to maximize inclusion, learning, achievement of IEP objectives, etc.
• Participates in the IEP data-gathering process and is a resource for the student personnel evaluation team as needed.
• Assist students with activities of daily living for the purpose of maximizing their ability to participate in school or learning activities.
• Follows all applicable safety rules, procedures, and regulations governing the proper manner of assistance for all students, including those with disabilities or other special needs.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

1. Completes the Utah Paraprofessional Training Certificate.

2. Demonstrates the ability to follow IEP accommodations and services as directed by the Special Education teacher.

3. Demonstrates the ability to intervene and communicate appropriately with adolescents.

4. Assists in providing behavioral interventions as required in each student's IEP, BIP, or SIP.

5. Assists teachers as they implement their lesson plans, ensuring instructional goals are met.

6. Implements and adheres to LRA's positive behavior program, promoting a culture of respect and discipline.

7. Assists in enforcing classroom rules, BIP expectations, and provides appropriate feedback to teachers regarding student work.

8. Holds students accountable for behavior in all locations while maintaining appropriate boundaries.

9. Responds promptly and attentively to direct requests or questions from students or other team members.

10. Listens carefully to students and team members, probing to clarify their specific needs or requests.

11. Fosters an inclusive and safe learning environment conducive to student behavior so all can learn.

12. Contributes relevant suggestions to fellow staff as they implement interventions and instruction.

13. Assists students during Speech, Occupational Therapy, off-campus trips and other related services.

14. Complies with requests to work one-on-one with designated students and provides scaffolding of lessons as directed by the teacher.

CORE COMPETENCIES

1. Completes work thoroughly, promptly and efficiently; managing multiple tasks as necessary.

2. Analyzes successes and shortcomings, then problem-solves with determination and creativity.

3. Supports approved decisions, responsibly completing tasks with minimal supervision.

4. Holds self, fellow staff, and all students accountable for doing what is required; fulfilling commitments.

5. Makes well-informed decisions, consulting when necessary with others; implementing practical solutions.

6. Communicates collaboratively, acknowledging verbal requests, phone, text, and email messages quickly.

7. Reads and adheres to updated policies and procedures, promptly reporting violations to a supervisor.

8. Maintains confidentiality and models professionalism as a representative of LRA in all locations.

9. Follows all safety regulations and does not hesitate to suggest changes that might improve safety.

10. Pursues continuous professional growth in order to enhance both student and personal performance.

11. Demonstrates an understanding of the LRA Positive Behavior Plan by consistently using it with students.

12. Uses IEP, ISP and BIP objectives when planning instructional, recreation and residential activities.

13. Completes necessary documentation within times specified in policies and procedures.

14. Reviews critical incidents and participates in root-cause analysis as requested by the Compliance Officer.

15. Supports and promotes the LRA values of diversity, equity and inclusion for all staff and students.

16. Greets all visitors, parents and reviewers with a smile and the utmost respect.

17. Models ethical behavior when resolving misunderstandings, disagreements and conflicts.

18. Responds positively to a supervisor's reasonable request to perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. High School Diploma/GED; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred.

2. Experience in working with adolescents.

3. Knowledge of human behavior, social interactions, and psychology is beneficial.

4. Strong oral and written communication skills.

5. Proficient in telephone, computer, and face-to-face customer service skills.

6. Excellent interpersonal skills with staff and students

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Under normal circumstances the employee will need to have the physical capacity to continuously use his/her hands for simple and firm grasping and fine manipulation. The employee may be required to do the following:

• Physically able to bend, stand, stoop, or sit for long periods of time.
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Push / Pull up to 100 lbs.
• Possible restraining of escalated clients

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical demands may vary for each client. You will be provided with more information if special physical demands are needed for a client.