Paraprofessional - Special Education AIM

Somerville Public Schools•Somerville, MA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The A.I.M Program (Adapt, Include, Motivate) is a specially designed program for students on the autism spectrum. Students receive specialized instruction designed to fit their individual needs within a substantially separate classroom with opportunities in the general educational setting when deemed appropriate, by the student’s educational team. The program is supported by a team of clinical specialists (BCBA, Occupational Therapist, Speech and Language Pathologist and Counselor). The program’s methodology of teaching relies heavily on the philosophy of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) through the utilization of various strategies including discrete trial training (DTT), errorless learning, prompting hierarchies, and incidental teaching. The classrooms also utilize a multi-sensory approach and total communication systems. Generalization of skills and independence are goals for all students within the program. Delivery of instruction occurs in 1:1, small group, and/or large group settings with appropriate supports and behavioral plans in place. The AIM program currently services children in pre-k through 8th grade in both the Capuano Early Childhood Center and the Winter Hill Community Innovation School. Paraprofessionals in the Somerville Public Schools assist teachers in all aspects of the functioning of the classroom, including instruction and maintaining a safe classroom environment. Paraprofessionals contribute to a positive classroom and school environment and collaborate with colleagues to support students in a variety of ways. Paraprofessionals are part of a community of educators who are continuous learners and who have a shared responsibility for student success.

Requirements

MA Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Clearance
Fingerprints

Responsibilities

Assist with instruction as directed by the teacher
Develop an understanding of the curriculum
Support the overall management of the classroom and student behavior
Provide small group and/or individual instruction under the direction of the classroom teacher
Provide assistance and supervision of students during cafeteria time, recess and if needed, toileting
Assist the classroom teacher with the development of curriculum materials
Help to create and maintain a safe learning environment
Support students’ emotional regulation
Collect academic and/or behavioral data as directed
Develop and maintain positive, respectful, and appropriate relationships with students
Engage positively, respectfully, and professionally with colleagues
Collaborate with colleagues to support student learning and success
Positively contribute to a classroom and school community that affirms the identities of all students and staff
Use practices and approaches that value student diversity
Protect student confidentiality
Engage in meaningful professional development opportunities and apply the learning from those experiences
Understand and utilize appropriate technology
Complete required paperwork and duties as assigned
Additional duties as assigned by the Principal/Supervisor and in accordance with the SEU Collective Bargaining Agreement