What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Paraprofessional position at New Story School?
Job Title: Special Education Paraprofessional
Location: Reading, PA 19607
Join New Story Schools, a leading special education provider dedicated to making a lasting impact on students’ lives. We serve children and young adults ages 5-22 in grades K-12 across multiple locations in Pennsylvania and Ohio, partnering with families and school districts to create a safe and empowering space for growth and development. Our schools offer small class sizes, individualized learning plans, and a supportive environment where students are empowered to succeed academically and socially.
Why Join Us?
- Compensation - $18.00 - $20.00 per hour based on education and experience.
- Weekday Schedule – Work Monday through Friday with a consistent school-based schedule, no nights or weekends required.
- Paid School Breaks & Time Off – Enjoy paid school breaks, holidays, and personal time off, ensuring time to recharge and reset.
- Comprehensive Benefits – Access health, dental, and vision insurance, plus employer-paid short-term disability, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts (FSA/HSA).
- Financial Perks – Benefit from a 401(k) retirement plan with up to 4% company match, plus employer-paid HSA contributions and life & disability insurance.
- Professional Development – Advance your career with tuition reimbursement, mentorship programs, leadership training, and pathways to grow into teaching or behavioral health roles.
- Supportive Team – Collaborate with educators, specialists, and therapists in a positive, inclusive environment with annual awards, Teammate Appreciation Week, and team-building events.
- Make an Impact – Help students with special needs build life skills, confidence, and independence in a supportive school environment.
Your Role as a Special Education Paraprofessional:
- Provide Classroom Support – Assist students with academic tasks, social interactions, adaption daily living skills, and emotional regulation to create a structured, supportive learning environment.
- Monitor & Track Student Progress – Observe student behavior, document notes, and collaborate with the team to adjust support strategies to help students meet their goals.
- Support Self-Help Skills – Assist students with toileting, feeding, and personal hygiene to foster independence and confidence in daily activities.
- Ensure a Safe Learning Environment – Intervene when necessary, using de-escalation techniques, and calming strategies.
- Collaborate with Teachers & Families – Work closely with educators, therapists, BCBAs, and parents to provide consistent, individualized support.
Required Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Minimum of three months of professional experience (paid or volunteer) working with individuals with behavioral or learning disabilities OR three months of internship experience working with individuals with behavioral or learning disabilities as part of a college degree program in education, social services, psychology, mental/behavioral health, or a related field.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills with students, families, and staff.
- Active listening and emotional intelligence to support students’ needs.
- Ability to foster a positive, professional school environment with patience and adaptability.
- Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Outlook) for documentation and communication.
Preferred (Nice to Have) Qualifications:
- Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) certification.
- Experience working in special education, mental health, or behavioral support such as an ABA Therapist, Direct Support, Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), Behavioral Health Technician, Paraprofessional, or Teacher Assistant.
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, Psychology, Special Education, Behavioral Science, or a related field (all degree types considered).
Ready to Make an Impact? Apply Today!
At New Story Schools, we are committed to diversity, inclusion, and creating a supportive, drug-free workplace. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Join our team and help shape a brighter future for students with special needs!
Salary : $18 - $20
