Lead Paraprofessional - Southview Middle School

Ankeny Community School District•Ankeny, IA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Paraprofessional is an experienced and thoughtful paraprofessional leader who is invested in the overall wellbeing and professional growth and development of new paraprofessionals. As a leader, the Lead Paraprofessional shares their knowledge and expertise, and acts as a guide and role model in acclimating new paraprofessionals to their building and to the district. In addition, this individual will assist with general support for the paraprofessional team, at their respective building, particularly with communication and collaboration with the building level administration.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED
Successful experience working as a paraprofessional
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to collaborate well with others

Nice To Haves

Valid Iowa Paraeducator Certificate

Responsibilities

Work collaboratively with building level administration to build and support a building-level onboarding and mentoring experience for new paraprofessional hires.
Routinely check in with new paraprofessional hires and support their acclimation to the building.
Cultivate and maintain strong professional relationships within the paraprofessional team.
Maintain consistent and open communication with the paraprofessional team.
Provide job shadowing, training, and instructional support to new hires as coordinated with building administration.
Deliver building-specific training for new staff in partnership with the administrative team.
Serve as a positive role model for the paraprofessional team and the broader school community.
Meet regularly with building administration to discuss staffing needs, resolve problems, and improve the onboarding process.
Assist classroom teachers in implementing lesson plans by working with individual students or small groups to reinforce instruction. This may include adapting instructional materials under teacher guidance to accommodate various learning styles and abilities.
Provide one-on-one or small group support for students.
Provide accommodations and modifications for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 plans, health plans, or other specialized needs.
Assist teachers in monitoring student progress and provide feedback to teachers on student performance and behavior.
Support students with the use of instructional technology (e.g., Chromebooks, iPads, assistive technology), including logging in, troubleshooting minor issues, or navigating platforms.
Assist with the implementation of behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and sensory strategies, as directed by special education staff.
Support students with activities of daily living, which may include feeding, toileting, mobility assistance, and hygiene, when necessary.
Maintain confidentiality and follow legal and ethical standards related to student support.
Supervise students in various settings including classrooms and non-classrooms, such as study hall, media center, hallways, cafeterias, gyms, playgrounds, buses, and during arrival and dismissal.
Promote and model positive behavior, using de-escalation techniques and conflict resolution strategies when needed.
Collaborate with teachers and other paraprofessionals to meet the needs of all students.
Provide excellent customer service and assistance to all students, parents, and colleagues, fostering a welcoming and approachable atmosphere.
Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned.
Work efficiently and independently with minimal supervision.
Demonstrate respect and professionalism in all interactions with colleagues, students, and families.
Use positive and professional communication in all interactions.
Adhere to safety protocols and policies established by the Ankeny Community School District to ensure the safety of oneself and others.
Support District goals and objectives while adhering to all District policies, contributing to the overall success of the school community.
Maintain consistent and reliable attendance and remain fully engaged in work duties, ensuring personal electronic devices do not interfere with student supervision or instructional support.
Perform additional duties as assigned.