Paraeducator Pre-K (2026-2027 School Year)

Wichita Public Schools•Wichita, KS

About The Position

The Paraeducator Pre-K assists the prekindergarten teacher in educating students and supporting a safe, engaging environment that promotes children’s social, cognitive, physical, and emotional development. The position works under the direct supervision of building administrators and collaborates with the PreK team, students, families, colleagues, and other customers. The paraeducator is expected to maintain confidentiality, communicate professionally, respond appropriately to customer needs, and complete scheduled work hours unless approved leave is granted. The role may require limited travel between schools and district offices. It may involve using Clear Touch interactive displays, SMART Boards, iPads, and standard office equipment, in compliance with WPS technology use guidelines. The position requires substantial physical activity, including walking, standing, bending, and lifting, as well as the ability to respond immediately to emergencies, which may include using physical restraint techniques.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
At least 48 accredited college credits, verifiable with a transcript, or passing a state-approved assessment.
Pass a Physical Capacity Profile (PCP) test.
Ability to work with a diverse population.
Ability to communicate verbally and in writing with people inside and outside the organization to give and obtain information as instructed.
Ability to communicate effectively with a supervisor when supervisory discretion is needed.
Ability to work effectively as a team player.
Calm, professional demeanor and positive attitude.
Good judgment when making decisions on recurring assignments.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Ability to meet professional standards for dress and appearance.
Ability to work in various weather conditions and react immediately to emergencies for student and staff safety, potentially including the use of physical restraint techniques.
Ability to walk long distances; stand for long periods; bend, twist, balance, stoop, climb steps, and reach overhead.
Manual dexterity, physical ability, and stamina for a full day of physical activity; ability to see and hear well and demonstrate good finger dexterity.
Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds, and lift and carry up to 100 pounds with assistance.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in Early Childhood.

Responsibilities

Supervise students across school settings as directed by the teacher or other staff.
Engage in positive interactions with students.
Interact with children during snacks and meals to encourage good eating habits and nutritional education.
Assist students with basic needs, including self-care, feeding, toileting, diapering, and physical transfers.
Assist the teacher with school activities on and off campus during the instructional day.
Communicate with parents as requested.
Assist with general classroom management and positive reinforcement.
Complete administrative responsibilities, including district-required forms for snacks and toileting.
Prepare instructional materials and learning centers under the direction of the PreK teacher.
Collaborate with the PreK team to promote developmentally appropriate practice.
Assist in managing classroom routines and procedures.
Assist in implementing student behavior plans.
Participate actively in team responsibilities and communicate with team members.
Promote student engagement in activities.
Provide accommodations and modifications to meet individual student needs under the direction of the PreK teacher.
Support staff in collecting data for individual and group activities.
Perform additional duties as assigned.