Paraeducator (62609)

CADES•Swarthmore, PA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

CADES is a nonprofit human services organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. Since 1951, we have empowered people with special needs to achieve their highest potential by committing to serve others by demonstrating the Core Values of Respect, Trust, and Growth. Today, CADES operates over 30 community living arrangements, adult day programs, the George Crothers Memorial School, and early-intervention services. CADES seeks Paraeducators to further our mission of empowering those with special needs to achieve their highest potential. SUMMARY: The Paraeducator assists the classroom teacher and related service team to provide educational instruction to children and/or young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or intensive support needs as prescribed in the student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and in accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) regulations. Additionally, depending on classroom assignment, this role may provide 1:1 support and/or assist with Community-based Instruction (CBI) to generalize learning and concepts across different environments within the community by incorporating academic, communication, recreation/leisure, and vocational skills as outlined in the student’s transition plan.

Requirements

Associate degree; or completion of at least two (2) years of post-secondary study (48 credits); or the successful completion of a state or locally developed assessment in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Two (2) years' experience working with school-age children required.
One (1) year of experience working with individuals living with multiple disabilities, including a strong understanding of the safety and communication support required for individuals with physical disabilities.
Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment and effectively prioritize tasks.
Demonstrated strong attention to detail.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Demonstrated strong time management and organizational skills.
Demonstrated excellent judgment with the ability to solve problems and make decisions in consultation with teachers, supervisors, and related services staff.
Demonstrated ability to anticipate changes and/or identify issues and take appropriate and effective actions.
Excellent customer interaction, collaboration, and written and verbal communication skills.
Demonstrated basic experience with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint, and PowerPoint.
Must be able to perform CPR, First Aid, and crisis intervention using agency-trained protocols.
Must pass and maintain CADES driving and securement certifications.
Must possess a current, valid driver's license in the state of residence, have a minimum of three (3) years of driving experience within the United States, and have an acceptable driving record, which will be assessed through a review of the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) record.

Nice To Haves

experience working with children with developmental disabilities preferred.
Demonstrated knowledge of appropriate assessment tools and practices for children ages 5-21 preferred.
Demonstrated knowledge of appropriate IEP development and service delivery practices for school age and transition children preferred
Knowledge of positive behavior supports preferred.
Knowledge of electronic management/electronic records systems preferred.

Responsibilities

Assists classroom teacher and related service team in the management and delivery of all aspects of children's programs and instruction in large, small, and individual groups.
Assists classroom teacher in planning and preparation of instructional activities including selection of instructional and collateral educational materials.
Implements individual behavior plans/protocols, with support from Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) and classroom teacher.
Monitors children's behaviors in the classroom, during lunch and at special activities outside, in the motor room and in the sensory room and provides necessary observations to team members.
Prepares daily classroom materials.
Actively participates in team meetings and other pertinent discussions of children served by the program.
Assists in creating and organizing an optimal classroom environment including, but not limited to, setting up schedules, routines, and workspaces.
Collects data specific to progress monitoring and behavior.
Participates in development and implementation of IEP goals and objectives.
Assists in maintaining consistency and integrity of program by participating in program assessment.
Implements curriculum and Individualized Education Programs as developed by the IEP team.
Performs cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and crisis intervention using agency-trained protocols.
Assists children with daily living skills including, but not limited to, toileting, participation in classroom mealtimes, hygiene activities, and classroom activities involving dressing.
Provides 1:1 support to students as needed and required.
Provide instructional support to students and young adults with multiple disabilities in the community setting during community-based instruction (CBI) to assist them with demonstrating character and competencies for workplace and/or community success as assigned and required.
Operates agency-provided vehicles and ensures the safe transportation of individuals served, including following required safety and wheelchair securement procedures for mobility devices.
Performs other duties as assigned.