On-Call Paraprofessional

State of Washington•Clark County – Vancouver, WA

28d•Onsite

About The Position

The Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) is dedicated to empowering blind and low vision individuals to reach their full potential. WSSB provides a diverse range of programs and services, including residential options, outreach services, specialized technology, and training for parents and educators. The agency values being student-centered, promoting equity, accessibility, strong relationships, and continuous improvement. On-Call Paraprofessionals are crucial for substituting permanent employees, providing instructional assistance and supervision to students in classroom and other school settings under the direction of teachers.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years old.
Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
Achieve a passing score on a state-approved assessment (ETS ParaPro Assessment, Pearson Paraprofessional Assessment, or The Master Teacher Inc. Paraeducator Online Training Program).
OR hold an associate degree or higher from an accredited institution.
OR have completed 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits at the 100 level or above from an accredited institution.
OR successfully finish a paraeducator apprenticeship program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council.
Ability and willingness to work daytime hours M-F (approximately 7am-3:45pm M-TH, 7am-2:30PM F or as needed to meet agency demands).
Ability to independently perform duties with frequent interruptions.
Ability/willingness to assist children with mobility activities.
Ability/willingness to assist children with toileting and other personal needs as needed.
Can provide clear and concise communication, both orally and in writing.
Ability to apply problem-solving skills to issues as they arise.
Willingness to maintain a positive attitude and be receptive to change in processes and procedures.
The ability to learn and grow and take action to meet the needs of others.
Pass Federal and State background checks subject to all applicable laws and regulations.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with blind and low vision individuals.
Demonstrated experience in an educational setting, preferably with middle and high school youth.
UEB WA certified for braille competency or ability and willingness to obtain Braille certification.
Experience with Daily Living Skills instruction for blind and low vision individuals.
Training and/or experience working with children with behavioral support needs.
Dual language pay eligibility (e.g., braille certification).

Responsibilities

Substitute for permanent employees during the school day.
Provide instructional assistance and supervision of students under the direction of teachers.
Work in classroom settings and other areas of the school such as the cafeteria.
Communicate with teachers, supervisor, and staff members on student issues, concerns, and progress.
Maintain confidentiality regarding student-related issues.
Create and maintain a safe, secure, and clean learning environment.
Assist students with basic daily needs, including hygiene and toileting.
Provide ongoing training and support in work experience settings.
Incorporate and use principles of orientation and mobility in all aspects of student interaction.
Incorporate IEP goals, objectives, and annual student evaluations using WSSB's Daily Living Skills Checklist assessment results.
Assist supervisor/instructor in classroom work, field trips, and lecture periods.
Assist in the classroom with self-help needs.
Prepare materials for use in classrooms, laboratories or instructional shops.
Set up assignments, equipment or demonstration apparatus for classes.
Confer with instructor in establishing and developing assignments.
Stand and walk for long periods of time.