Paraeducator Specialist 1:1 (Behavior) @ Columbia Middle School

Moses Lake School District 161•Moses Lake, WA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

This Paraeducator Specialist 1:1 (Behavioral) position is located at Columbia Middle School and involves working 6.50 hours per day for 180 days per year. The shift time is subject to building needs. The role is unique and tailored to meet the specific needs of an individual student, as outlined in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). The primary focus is on providing behavioral and academic support to help the student engage successfully in learning activities while maintaining emotional regulation. The paraeducator will collaborate with the student's case manager and other staff to implement strategies for enhanced participation and success in both academic and non-academic settings. A key goal is to foster the student's independence in completing tasks, managing behaviors, and interacting appropriately with peers and staff. The position requires strict adherence to the student's Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP), including recognizing triggers, implementing preventive strategies, and using positive behavior supports to de-escalate challenging behaviors with district-approved techniques. Completion of Safety Care Behavioral Safety Training is mandatory. The paraeducator must maintain open communication with the case manager, who provides direct oversight, and be adaptable to assist with personal care tasks, academic, and behavioral interventions. Ongoing professional development is expected to enhance skills in assistive technologies, behavior management, and other support tools. Compliance with all district policies and procedures, including confidentiality and maintaining a positive learning environment, is essential. Punctual and consistent attendance is required, with early notification to the supervisor for any necessary absences.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Earned 72 college level credits from an accredited institution of higher education, OR possess a college degree, OR be able to pass the Educational Testing Service (ETS) Assessment.
Previous experience working with students in both individual and small group instructional situations.
Previous experience and/or training working with students in a classroom setting.
Proven ability to complete tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to manage large groups of students in an unstructured environment while maintaining a high level of safety.
Proven record of punctuality and consistent attendance.
Willingness and ability to assist students with personal management, including toileting, changing, eating, and other personal hygiene.
Criminal history clearance through Washington State Patrol and FBI.
Complete required Safe Schools trainings.
Obtain and maintain current CPR/First Aid certification.
Obtain and maintain Safety Care certification.
Successfully complete the Washington State Fundamental Course of Study for Paraeducators within the first year of employment.

Nice To Haves

Training and experience using current curriculum.

Responsibilities

Provide individualized behavioral and academic support to a student based on their unique needs as outlined in their IEP.
Collaborate with the student's case manager and other staff to implement strategies for student engagement and success.
Assist the student in developing skills that promote independence in task completion, behavior management, and social interaction.
Follow the student's Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) precisely, recognizing triggers, implementing preventive strategies, and de-escalating challenging behaviors.
Use district-approved de-escalation techniques and interventions to manage situations safely and effectively.
Maintain open and regular communication with the student's case manager, updating them on progress, behavior, and challenges.
Assist with a range of personal care tasks, including toileting, feeding, and mobility assistance, as needed.
Participate in ongoing professional development to improve skills in assistive technologies, behavior management, and student support.
Adhere to all district policies and procedures, including maintaining confidentiality and supporting a positive learning environment.
Ensure punctuality and consistent attendance, informing the supervisor early for any required absences and entering them into the district absence management system.