Elementary Life Skills Paraprofessional

Career Academy Network of Public Schools • South Bend, IN

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Life Skills Paraprofessional provides instructional and behavioral support to students with moderate to severe disabilities under the direction of a certified teacher in a self-contained classroom. This role assists students in developing functional academic skills, daily living skills, social/emotional growth, and independence. The paraprofessional supports student participation in school and community settings, ensuring their physical, emotional, and social well-being while promoting dignity and respect in all relationships.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Experience working with children or individuals with disabilities preferred
• Strong communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to follow directions and adapt to various instructional strategies
• Must pass a background check and meet all school district compliance requirements
• Must have one of the following to be an HQ Paraprofessional as required by the IDOE
• Two Years of college experience
• A two-year college degree
• Passed the Para-Pro Assessment (within the first year of Employment)
• One year or 1,000 hours of previous employment experience in a school- level evaluations
• Completed 48 credit hours of college-level classes
• Experience or willingness to learn strategies for supporting students with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities.
• Ability to assist with personal care needs respectfully and professionally.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills for working with teachers, therapists, and families.
• Proficiency in technology for documentation, communication, and student support.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, adapt to changes, and remain flexible to meet student needs.
• Consistent demonstration of professionalism, including reliable attendance, punctuality, and adherence to school policies.
• Must demonstrate foundational professionalism, including consistent attendance, punctuality, adherence to school policies and procedures, and strong employability skills. These are considered essential, non-negotiable expectations of the role.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with children or individuals with disabilities preferred

Responsibilities

• Provide instructional support to students in academic, social, and functional skill development under teacher supervision.
• Assist students with activities of daily living (e.g., feeding, toileting, hygiene, mobility, communication devices).
• Support students in the use of adaptive equipment and assistive technology.
• Implement behavior intervention strategies and reinforcement plans as directed by the IEP team.
• Monitor students throughout the school day to promote safety, engagement, and inclusion.
• Foster independence and self-advocacy by encouraging students to participate in classroom, school, and community activities.
• Maintain confidentiality of student information.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Student Services

What This Job Offers

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