Early Childhood/Elementary Paraprofessional

Marquette-Alger RESA • Wells Township, MI

9d • Onsite

About The Position

The paraprofessional assists in the preschool classroom, on the school bus before and after school, and provides 1-1 support to students as needed during the school day. This role involves assisting in the educational and social development of students, ensuring their safety on the bus, and supporting classroom management and individualized education plans.

Requirements

• High School Graduate or earned GED
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with multiple stakeholders to provide a continuum of services for students
• Willingness and ability to assist students with challenging behaviors
• Ability to work in a team centered approach
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Computer literate
• Ability to deal with issues in a tactful and respectful manner
• Ability to maintain safety and promote student dignity during behavioral incidents.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment yet maintain flexibility in thinking and actions.
• Proficiency in computer/software use including Google Suite, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Zoom.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to understand and follow safety procedures.
• Ability to understand and follow specific instructions and procedures.
• Ability to work cooperatively with others in a team environment.
• Ability to engage in coaching, consultation, and supervision from district and MARESA staff/admin.
• Physically capable of interacting with students with varying levels of noise throughout the work day.
• Must have regular and reliable job attendance, performance, and the physical ability to do the job.
• Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check.

Nice To Haves

• Associates degree preferred for highly qualified individuals
• 60 college credit hours OR Associate Degree OR Michigan Title 1 Paraprofessional Certificate for highly qualified individuals
• Interest and experience working one-to-one with students and in early childhood settings

Responsibilities

• Report for duty by 7:30a and remain at school until 4:30pm, in order to assist students on our district bus four days per week (Monday-Thursday).
• Assist in the educational and social development of students under the direction and guidance of the lead teacher.
• Be on the bus for pick-up and drop-off of students; assisting with safety equipment and 5 point restraint systems.
• Assist the teacher and students with general instructional and assistive technology devices.
• Encourage students to exercise independence, autonomy, and responsibility.
• Assist with classroom management and enforcement of rules.
• Provide prompt communication and feedback regarding student progress, behavior data, and effectiveness of interventions.
• Collect and record accurate data related to behavior goals and therapeutic objectives, and assist in monitoring student progress.
• Complete Handle With Care training and participate in annual recertification, and attend staff and team meetings.
• Complete 10 credits hours of professional development each calendar year on designated topics including Pediatric First Aid and CPR.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding school/workplace matters, assist with student records, and perform other duties as assigned.
• Assist in the maintenance of an orderly classroom and a healthy, safe, and positive learning environment.
• Provide support for students inside and outside the classroom to enable them to fully participate in activities.
• Assist the teacher in planning, preparing, and implementing daily activities.
• Implement individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and Individual Education Plans (IEPs) with fidelity in collaboration with certified staff and mental health providers.
• Teach and practice emotional regulation and coping skill development through modeling, reinforcement, and therapeutic strategies.
• Apply de-escalation techniques and proactive behavior support strategies to prevent and respond to behavioral crises.
• Facilitate student transitions between activities and environments, reinforcing expected behaviors and routines.
• Promote positive behavioral supports during both structured academic time and unstructured settings.
• Assume responsibility for small groups and 1:1 activities to reinforce learning concepts and help with mastery of skills.
• Assist children with toileting, handwashing, and basic hygiene.

Benefits

• Commensurate with experience and district pay scale.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED