Educational Assistant- Special Education Social Communications Program

Rio Rancho Public Schools•Rio Rancho, NM

22h•Onsite

About The Position

This job is for the Short Term 2026-2027 school year at Cielo Azul Elementary School, within the Social Communications Program. It is a 190-day contract position. Rio Rancho Public Schools (RRPS) requires all Educational Assistants to hold a Level 3 K-12 Educational Assistant License through the New Mexico Public Education Department. To qualify for a Level 3 License, applicants must show transcripts from a credentialing college or university, or must pass a paraprofessional exam administered by RRPS. The Social Communications Classrooms are a District cluster program designed for students with significant communication, social, and behavioral needs. The purpose of this setting is to provide a highly structured, language-rich learning environment targeting specific skill development in functional communication, pragmatic language, social skills, and academics, based on an individualized educational plan. Support and services are provided by a multidisciplinary team using a co-support/co-teach model. Evidence-based instructional strategies and interventions are utilized to support student access and progress. Each student’s individualized education plan includes support services, accommodations, and modifications within the small group special education classroom as well as general education settings.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Must hold or be able to obtain a New Mexico Public Education Department Level 3 K-12 Educational Assistant License
Must hold or be able to obtain a New Mexico Public Education Department Substitute License
Transcripts from a credentialing college or university, or pass a paraprofessional exam

Nice To Haves

Working with students through their lunch period may be expected for Tier 3 Educational Assistants.

Responsibilities

Assisting teachers and professionals with preparation and/or delivery of instructional material
Assisting in one-on-one and small group activities
Assisting in transferring students
Assisting in caring for student needs: May include such duties as feeding, cleaning, diapering, caring for catheter equipment (connecting, emptying, reconnecting catheter bag), toileting, feminine hygiene, clothing changes, transporting in wheelchairs, transferring to and from wheelchairs, and assisting with other daily living activities
Assisting teacher and ancillary staff in implementing goals and objectives for each student
Assisting in management/re-direction of students who may be disruptive or combative
Assisting with supervision of students on the playground, cafeteria, restrooms, and hallways
Participating in staff meetings, in-service training as per negotiated agreement, other school activities
Complies with state-approved New Mexico Administrative Code of Ethical Responsibility of the Education Profession and the RRPS Employee Standards of Conduct and upholds and enforces rules, administrative directives and regulations, school board policies, and local, state and federal regulations
Performing clerical duties for teachers
Performing substitute duties as assigned
Employee may be assigned other duties based on the needs of the District during the term of employment