Elementary Multilingual Paraprofessional

Kalamazoo Public Schools•Kalamazoo, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Elementary Multilingual Paraprofessional will provide instructional support to students of limited English proficiency under the direction of the multilingual teacher and/or general education classroom teacher. This role involves assisting students individually and in groups with classroom lessons, performing routine classroom tasks, and supporting English learners in developing their language skills. The paraprofessional will also collaborate with teachers to foster an inclusive and culturally sensitive environment, facilitate communication between school and parents, and engage in ongoing professional development.

Requirements

Must have at least a high school diploma or accredited equivalency and at least one of the following Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) qualifications: two years of study (60 credit hours) at an institution of higher learning, an associate degree or higher, passing scores in math, reading, and writing on the ACT Work Keys Assessment prior to June 1, 2017, or the Basic Skills Test of the Michigan Teacher Test for Certification; or passing score of at least 460 on the ETS (Education Testing Service) Paraprofessional Assessment.
Able to speak clearly and express ideas.
Above-average English reading and language arts skills.
Good personal appearance and grooming.
Ability to develop a rapport with the students.
Evidence of a desirable work record (i.e., low absenteeism, good job performance, flexibility).
Ability to handle the physical requirements of the job: bending, lifting.
Willingness to work with various students in the building.
Ability to maintain the necessary energy and composure to work successfully with students.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree.
Previous voluntary or paid experience with youth.
Completion of classes in English, Math, Social Studies, Science, Computers, or other training in education.
Ability to work with students with diverse backgrounds, representing different cultures and languages.
Be fluent in multiple languages, including English.

Responsibilities

Assist students individually and in groups with classroom lessons in the multilingual and /or general education classroom.
Perform routine classroom tasks, such as maintaining records and a clean physical environment, as assigned by the classroom teacher.
Assist English learners in developing their language skills through targeted activities, one-on-one sessions, or small group interactions.
Collaborate with teachers to support English learners within the regular classroom setting, providing additional explanation and support as needed.
Promote a culturally inclusive environment, understanding, and respecting diverse backgrounds to enhance the language learning experience for students.
Act as a bridge between teachers and English learners, ensuring effective communication and understanding between all parties involved.
Assist in the creation and adaptation of instructional materials that cater to the language needs of English learners, making learning resources more accessible.
Collaborate with teachers in administering assessments for English learners’ language proficiency and progress, providing feedback and insights for further development.
Assist classroom teacher with monitoring individualized learning plans for English learners, tailoring support to meet the specific needs of each student.
Foster communication between school and parents, helping parents understand and actively participate in their child’s language development and academic progress.
Advocate for and implement inclusive practices that support the integration of English learners into the broader classroom community.
Engage in ongoing professional development to stay updated on best practices in language acquisition, cultural competence, and educational strategies for English learners.
Perform other duties as assigned.