ParaEducator: Special Education - Central Special Education

Anne Arundel County Public Schools•Edgewater, MD

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Assists teachers in meeting the instructional and physical needs of students with disabilities, including physical, cognitive, and/or emotional disabilities. Performs instructional tasks designated by professional staff in accordance with student Individual Educational Programs (IEPs), the curriculum, and alternate curriculum standards. Supports differentiated instruction and learning environments that help students develop knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm for learning. Works with students individually and in groups to reinforce instruction, motivate participation, support classroom management, and assist teachers and other service providers in delivering specially designed instruction at the Pre-K, elementary, and/or secondary levels. Duties may vary by assignment, and the employee must be able to perform all listed duties independently. This position performs varied tasks that support teaching and learning, student achievement, and well-being. The role requires direct, in-person service and regular, punctual, and predictable attendance. The position works in school or similar indoor settings and may also involve outdoor and street environments. It includes substantial physical activity and lifting or carrying up to 80 pounds. The position reports to the Principal, works 191 days over 10 months, and has a seven-hour workday.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalency certificate.
For work in a Title I-funded school, 48 college credit hours or a passing score on a paraprofessional assessment issued by ETS or NES.
One year of related experience working with children in an educational setting.
Ability to collaborate and work professionally in support of teachers and service providers.
Ability to assist students with disability-related needs, including lifting, pushing, moving wheelchairs, feeding, and assisting with bodily functions and hygiene.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Regular, punctual, and predictable attendance; the position provides direct, in-person service.
Ability to work and communicate effectively with diverse populations.
Demonstrated proficiency with business software, such as video/web conferencing and Microsoft Office applications.
Must retain active licenses, certifications, and enrollment as a condition of employment.
For work in a Title I-funded school, a passing score on an ETS- or NES-issued paraprofessional assessment is required if used in lieu of 48 college credit hours.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree in Special Education or a related field of education from a regionally accredited college or university.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and/or PowerPoint.
Career advancement qualifications include additional successful experience and specified college credits, specialized-care training hours/CEUs, or a paraprofessional assessment, depending on grade level.

Responsibilities

Implement instructional plans and activities designated by teachers, service providers, and/or job coaches, including demonstrating tasks and skills and reinforcing engagement.
Motivate and encourage students, support task completion and independence, and use appropriate strategies to redirect students, monitor learning behaviors, and implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).
Assist in planning and conducting classroom activities, carrying out planned instruction, preparing materials, and setting up equipment.
Guide students as they transition or travel through school buildings and during community-based instruction.
Under supervision, follow medical protocols, including feeding and swallowing procedures and appropriate responses to seizures and other health or well-being situations.
Provide or guide instruction in independent manipulation of outdoor attire and shoes, personal grooming, self-help, and related tasks.
Support instructional programming, including student access to the State's Dynamic Learning Maps (DLMs) assessment.
Adjust braces, walkers, and/or wheelchairs as needed; assist non-ambulatory students and students who need help with personal care, including toileting, bathroom care, and diapering.
Perform administrative and instructional support tasks, including collating, supporting instructional modifications, correcting work samples, inventorying and requisitioning materials, maintaining files, recording attendance, and collecting data on student performance and functioning.
Maintain knowledge of applicable policies and procedures.
Perform other related duties as assigned within the same classification or lower.