Paraeducator - Basic

Polk County Public Schools•Lakeland, FL

17h

About The Position

This position provides specialized assistance to schools and supports the care and well-being of students. Work is performed under the general supervision of supervisors or teachers and is evaluated through observation, periodic conferences, critiques, records, and reports. The role may involve assisting with instruction and classroom activities, preparing instructional materials, providing clerical assistance, and using technology to support instruction and assigned tasks. Depending on the assignment, specialized duties may include home visits, student health and hygiene care, speech or language interpretation, operating adaptive equipment, and physically assisting students or adults with impairments. Personal transportation between work sites may be required. The position also involves attending meetings and in-service training, serving on committees, and becoming familiar with the school’s philosophies, policies, procedures, equipment, and work site. Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited high school or completion of a GED.
At least 60 college credit hours, an associate’s degree or higher from an accredited school, or a passing score on the Para Pro exam.
Genuine interest in educating and working with young people.
Ability to understand written and oral instructions, communicate coherently in speech and writing, keep records, and prepare simple reports.
Ability to work cooperatively and act professionally with school personnel and parents.
Special abilities may be required for specialized paraprofessional positions.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual/biliterate ability is preferred.

Responsibilities

Attend meetings and in-service training as necessary and serve on committees.
Become familiar with the philosophies, policies, procedures, equipment, and work site where assigned.
Provide clerical assistance to the assigned supervisor when needed.
Supervise students and reinforce instruction in various situations and programs.
Prepare instructional materials as assigned.
Provide classroom assistance when assigned to a classroom or classroom extension.
Use technology to enhance instruction and assist with assigned tasks.
Perform specialized duties as required, including home visits, health and hygiene care, interpretation, operation of adaptive equipment, and physical assistance.
Travel between sites when required.
Perform other duties as assigned.