On-Call Paraprofessional

Student-Centered   Equity   Accessibility   Relationships   Continuous Improvement 

Agency Profile: 

The core purpose of the Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) is to empower blind and low vision individuals to reach their full potential.  We believe in a future where every blind and low vision student in Washington has the supports and services they need to succeed.  Our programs and services are provided across a diverse continuum of service options; including a range of short and long-term programs that include residential options at our Vancouver campus, outreach services in local schools and communities, access to specialized technology and resources through our Ogden Resource Center, as well as training options for parents, educators, and related service providers through a combination of department efforts.  Our greatest resource at WSSB are our incredible staff.  Our valued employees are continuously encouraged to improve the ways that we provide service to our students and the community. WSSB’s core values are: being student-centered, equity, accessibility, relationships, and continuous improvement. 

Note: This recruitment can be used for multiple positions and shifts. On-Call staff are not eligible for the benefits listed in the Benefits tab of Neogov. However, on-call staff are eligible for the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). On-Call staff are also eligible to accrue vacation on a pro rata basis in accordance with WAC 357-31-165.  Holidays are paid in accordance with WAC 357-31-010. Personal holidays and sick time are paid in accordance with WAC 357-31-055 and WAC 357-31-115.  The full salary range has been posted for information purposes only.  New hires typically do not start at the top of the range without State of Washington agency experience in a similarly situated position as these are considered senior/longevity steps. This position may be eligible for Assignment Pay, a premium of 5% which is added to an employee's base salary for recognized specialized skills (i.e. braille certification) that exceed the ordinary requirements for the position. 

On-Call Paraprofessionals work when needed to substitute for permanent employees during the school day providing instructional assistance and supervision of students under the direction of teachers within the classroom setting and other areas of the school such as the cafeteria. Successful candidates will communicate with teachers, supervisor, and staff members on student issues, concerns, and progress; maintain confidentiality regarding student-related issues; create and maintain a safe, secure, and clean learning environment.  Additional duties can include but are not limited to assisting students with basic daily needs which include hygiene and toileting; provide on-going training and support in work experience settings; incorporate and use principles of orientation and mobility in all aspects of student interaction; incorporate IEP goals, objectives, and annual student evaluations using WSSB's Daily Living Skills Checklist assessment results.

The successful candidates will have the ability to: 

• Work with blind and low vision children;
• Independently perform duties with frequent interruptions;
• Assist children with mobility activities;
• Assist children with toileting and other personal needs;
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing;
• Apply problem solving skills to issues as they arise;
• Maintain a positive attitude and be receptive to change in processes and procedures;
• Assist supervisor/instructor in classroom work, field trips, and lecture periods;
• Assist in the classroom with self-help needs;
• Prepare materials for use in classrooms, laboratories or instructional shops; set up assignments, equipment or demonstration apparatus for classes; confer with instructor in establishing and developing assignments;
• Ability and willingness to obtain Braille certification;
• Lift up to 45 lbs.;
• Stand and walk for long periods of time; and,
• Pass Federal and State background checks.

Qualifications include:

• To qualify for paraeducator positions in Washington State, candidates must meet the following criteria:

     •      Age and Education: Be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent.

     •      Additional Qualifications: Fulfill at least one of the following:

             1.         Achieve a passing score on a state-approved assessment, such as:

               •        ETS ParaPro Assessment: Minimum score of 455.

               •        Pearson Paraprofessional Assessment: Minimum score of 220.

               •        The Master Teacher Inc. Paraeducator Online Training Program: Minimum score of 65%.

             2.         Hold an associate degree or higher from an accredited institution.

             3.         Have completed 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits at the 100 level or above from an accredited institution.

             4.         Successfully finish a paraeducator apprenticeship program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council.

Desired Qualifications include:

• Two or more years working experience in educational setting;
• Current Braille certification; or ability to obtain
• Experience with Daily Living Skills instruction for the blind and low vision; and,
• Training and/or experience working with children with behavioral support needs.

What We Offer! WSSB offers employees a student-focused and mission-driven environment that empowers blind and low vision individuals to reach their full potential.  Our beautiful 13.2 acre campus is on the National Register of Historic Places and not only includes state-of-the-art classrooms but a fitness center with saline pool and floor-to-ceiling rock climbing wall, track & field, auditorium, braille center, low vision clinic, LIFTT program offering dorm-style housing and much more!

How to apply:

To begin the online application process, click the 'Apply' button at the top of this announcement. To be considered for this position you must include the following information in your online application and complete any supplemental questionnaire(s).

• A completed online application profile that includes education and employment history (applications that state "see my resume" or similar language on the application will be considered incomplete); and,
• Allow contact for three professional references included in your application, including at least one supervisor, with up-to-date contact information.

For questions or information regarding the online application, please email kristina.bader@wssb.wa.gov.

Union Inclusion: This position is included in a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).  

Opportunity for All:  The Washington State School for the Blind celebrates our differences and we are committed to a workplace that supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital status, families with children (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, status as a protected veteran, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as an individual with the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with disabilities or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We will also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws. A background check including criminal record history will be conducted.  Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competency to perform in the position.   You are welcome to include the name and pronoun you would like to be referred to in your materials and we will honor this as you interact with our organization.  

Veterans Preference: Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, or other verification of military service. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as social security number. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Additional Information:   The state of Washington is an equal opportunity employer.  Persons with a disability who need assistance with the application process, may call (360) 696-6321 and ask to speak to Human Resources or email hr@wssb.wa.gov. Should you have any questions regarding this position, or the online application, please email Kristina.Bader@wssb.wa.gov. 

Salary : $20 - $26