2026-2027 Paraprofessional III - Cowden Elementary School (Multiple Openings)

Springfield Public Schools•Springfield, MO

About The Position

Responsible for providing support to the instructional program with specific responsibility for assisting individual students in reaching targeted behavior goals and social competencies; assisting in the instruction of individual or small groups of students in a variety of subject areas; and monitoring and reporting student behavior and performance.

Requirements

Minimum of 60 college hours completed OR Certificate of completion from a DESE approved Substitute Training program
Must obtain and maintain Missouri Substitute Teaching Certificate.
Obtain and maintain physical intervention training.
Must pass a Criminal Background Clearance, the results of which must be satisfactory to the District, required.
Knowledge of basic math, including calculations using fractions, percentages, and/or ratios; read a variety of manuals, write documents following prescribed formats, and/or present information to others; and analyze situations to define issues and draw conclusions.
Knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: child guidance principles and practices, especially as they relate to students with learning disabilities; instructional materials and techniques used in Special Education; safe practices in classroom and other activities; correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; reading and writing communication skills; and record keeping techniques.
Skill to perform multiple, technical tasks with a need to routinely upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions.
Skill based competencies required to perform the functions of the job, including operating standard office equipment including using pertinent software applications; and preparing and maintaining accurate records.
Ability to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups.
Ability to adhere to safety practices; meet deadlines and schedules; work under time constraints; and communicate with diverse groups.

Nice To Haves

CPR and First Aid certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist teachers in specialized and/or general education classroom in adapting, preparing and presenting a variety of instructional materials, activities and assignments, presenting and/or reinforcing learning concepts.
Assist assigned instructional staff in improving student's learning skills, self-care, and/or social development providing learning concepts and materials.
Attend meetings, workshops, conferences, trainings, etc. receiving and conveying information relative to job functions.
Communicate with teachers regarding assigned students' progress, participating in needs assessments and assisting in evaluating progress.
Document observations of student performance in academic and school activities providing written records and complying with mandated requirements.
Escort students providing direction and ensuring their welfare.
Guide students with disabilities in personal interactions, developing interpersonal skills and successful problem-solving strategies.
Maintain manual and electronic instructional files and records providing written reference and meeting mandated requirements.
Monitor students' performance, under the direction of assigned classroom teacher, providing feedback to students, teachers and/or others involved in the provision of services in accordance with IEPs as appropriate.
Report health and safety issues to instructional personnel, administrative personnel, and/or appropriate agencies maintaining students’ personal safety, a positive learning environment and complying with regulatory requirements and established guidelines.
Support students in a variety of educational environments providing a safe and positive learning environment.
Perform other related duties as required/assigned.