Paraprofessional (ESP) - Special Education

Chicopee Public Schools•Chicopee, MA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The primary function of a paraprofessional is work with individual or small groups of children with special needs to facilitate learning and achievement.

Requirements

High School Diploma required, as well as additional college level coursework.
Must be trained or willing to be trained by the Chicopee Public schools in the knowledge and performance areas identified for the specific assignment (e.g., Implementation of a Student Behavior Plan, Use of Sign Basic Language, Use of a Communication Board, Physical Restraint and Verbal De-escalation Techniques).

Nice To Haves

Associates or Bachelor's degree preferred
Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred
Previous experience preferred

Responsibilities

Work with individual and small groups of students
Administer, correct and communicate basic analyze of student assessments
Utilize the conclusions derived from assessment analysis in subsequent instruction
Instruct students on rules of conduct and expected behaviors
Bring academic, social and motor issues to the attention of the classroom teacher
May update parents or guardians of their students’ academic performance and behavior
Support class objectives and outlines that align with the district approved curriculum
Maintain records, attendance and assessments as required by the classroom teacher
Assist in preparation of classroom materials
Assist in the delivery of differentiated instruction in an appropriate manner consistent with district curriculum
Provide timely feedback to the classroom teacher regarding student progress in academic, social and motor skills
Assist students with activities of daily living, including diapering and toileting needs if necessary
Work independently by appropriately using the directions given by the special education teacher
Demonstrate the dependability, time management, as well as the receptive and expressive communication skills, to effectively perform the assignment
Build on strengths and act on suggestions in areas needing improvement
Possess the ability to be flexible and adapt quickly to new situations and an ever changing educational environment
Demonstrate sound judgment
Maintain effective, professional working relationship with others (e.g., paraprofessionals, teachers, staff, parents, guardians, administrators, etc.)
Resolve conflict well, and seek assistance when appropriate
Under the direction of the special education teacher, strive to maintain a learning environment that is both physically and emotionally safe
As appropriate, assist in the communication and enforcement of federal and state laws and regulations, as well as district policies and procedures
Other duties as assigned by the principal, or school administration
Respect students, parents, guardians and community.
Respect and embrace students of diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Assist in the protection of students and property.
Assist the classroom teacher in fire and other emergency drills.
Assist the classroom teacher in the management of students (e.g. dismissal, field trips, etc.)
Maintain a high level of personal integrity, confidentiality and a strong work ethic.
Practice discretion and maintains the confidentiality, particularly and specifically concerning the background, achievement, behavior or other information about children with special needs.
Participate in professional development as assigned.