EL Instructional Paraprofessional

Grand Rapids Public Schools•Grand Rapids, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The EL Paraprofessional is responsible for working as a team member in providing a quality educational program for assigned scholars by providing additional time for the teacher to plan. The EL Paraprofessional is also responsible for certain non-instructional and concept/skill reinforcement tasks and providing scholars the opportunity for additional adult/scholar relationships. This role is part of the English Learner (EL) program within the Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS).

Requirements

Completed at least two years of study at an institution of higher education (60 Credits); OR obtained an associate's or higher degree, OR achieved a passing score on a MDE approved ETS paraprofessional assessment.
Ability to deal with scholars, parents, staff, and community in a tactful and courteous manner.
Experience working with children.
Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills with exceptional organizational abilities.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to information security protocols.
Ability to work in a diverse environment.
Ability to participate as a member of the team.
Consistently demonstrate dependable attendance and punctuality.
Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds.
Must be able to work outside for extended periods (up to the entire eight-hour shift) in all weather conditions.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to compare, analyze, communicate both orally and in writing in the English language, copy, coordinate, instruct, compute, synthesize, evaluate, use interpersonal skills, compile, and negotiate.

Nice To Haves

Participation in 12 hours of EL Professional Development through the EL Department regarding the following: Develop and understand of our ELs, Understand specific duties related to the EL Paraprofessional, Acquire a basic understanding of SIOP, Develop techniques on how to fully support the teacher and small group instruction.

Responsibilities

Actively participating in building activities, meetings, parent conferences, staffing, training, and IEPs, when appropriate, as determined by the building administration or the assigned certified teacher.
Presenting lessons to individual scholars or small groups, assisting in all introductions of information and concepts, selection and preparation of materials, and establishment of reward systems, as determined by the certified teacher.
Assisting with loading and unloading of buses and recess duty, when necessary.
Informing the certified teacher of any specific needs or concerns regarding the scholars.
Carrying through on suggestions, as directed by the teacher.
Assisting with medical and grooming needs of scholars when needed.
Assisting in preparing displays of scholar work.
Securing, setting up, and operating materials and equipment.
Assisting the teacher in maintaining a positive EL climate.
Interacting with co-workers, administration, scholars, parents, and the community in positive, supportive, and cooperative ways.
Performing other duties as assigned.