Instructional Paraprofessional

Grand Rapids Public Schools•Grand Rapids, MI

12d•Onsite

About The Position

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were written out in this job description. GRPS MISSION : Our mission is to ensure that all scholars are educated, self-directed and productive members of society. Paraprofessional - Instructional Department: Instruction Bargaining Unit: Grand Rapids Public Schools Paraprofessional Association (GRPSPA) Wage: According to the collective bargaining agreement Direct Supervisor: Principal JOB SUMMARY The Classroom 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 Classroom Paraprofessional is also responsible for certain non-instructional and concept/skill reinforcement tasks and providing scholars the opportunity for additional adult/scholar relationships. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Essential functions under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include any of the following duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is illustrative only and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by employees in this position. Regular on time and in person attendance is an essential function of this job. Other essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following: Responsible for actively participating in building activities, meetings, parent conferences, staffing, training, IEP, when appropriate, as determined by the building administration or the assigned certified teacher. Present lessons to individual scholars or small groups, assisting in all introductions of information and concepts, selection and preparation of materials, establishment of reward systems, as determined by the certified teacher. This includes work outdoors, all year round (all seasons). Assist with loading and unloading of buses and recess duty, when necessary. Responsible for informing the certified teacher of any specific needs or concerns regarding the scholars. Responsible for carrying through on suggestions, as directed by the teacher. When needed, assist with medical and grooming needs of scholars. Assist in preparing displays of scholar work. Secure, set up and operate materials and equipment. Assist teacher in maintaining a positive classroom climate. Interact with co-workers, administration, scholars, parents & the community in positive, supportive, and cooperative ways. Work outside each day for extended periods of time. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Must have: 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.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, consistently reliable attendance and punctuality, and exceptional organizational abilities.
Ability to work with computers.
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.

Responsibilities

Responsible for actively participating in building activities, meetings, parent conferences, staffing, training, IEP, when appropriate, as determined by the building administration or the assigned certified teacher.
Present lessons to individual scholars or small groups, assisting in all introductions of information and concepts, selection and preparation of materials, establishment of reward systems, as determined by the certified teacher. This includes work outdoors, all year round (all seasons).
Assist with loading and unloading of buses and recess duty, when necessary.
Responsible for informing the certified teacher of any specific needs or concerns regarding the scholars.
Responsible for carrying through on suggestions, as directed by the teacher.
When needed, assist with medical and grooming needs of scholars.
Assist in preparing displays of scholar work.
Secure, set up and operate materials and equipment.
Assist teacher in maintaining a positive classroom climate.
Interact with co-workers, administration, scholars, parents & the community in positive, supportive, and cooperative ways.
Work outside each day for extended periods of time.
Perform other duties as assigned.