Paraprofessional - Special Education

Haverhill Public Schools•Haverhill, MA

3h•Hybrid

About The Position

Haverhill Public Schools is seeking a full-time Educational Support Personnel (ESP) 1:1 Special Education Instructional Support, Special Education Intensive Support paraprofessional. This role involves working under the supervision of a certified teacher to assist in implementing student IEPs, reinforcing learning, supporting social skills, self-care, and vocational tasks. The position requires assisting with student behavior, utilizing online platforms for instruction, and collaborating with a team of professionals. Responsibilities include data collection, implementing behavior and safety plans, and potentially assisting with toileting and lifting students as per their IEPs. The role also involves non-instructional duties such as supervising students during various times and activities, and assisting with administrative tasks as needed. Participation in professional development is expected.

Requirements

Passing score on the Para Pro Test or other state-approved assessment program OR 48 college credits OR Associate Degree
Willingness to accept direction and cooperate with all staff
Computer Literate
Ability to learn and use Assistive Technology
Ability to use Online Platforms through Google Meets and Google Classroom, etc., in person and virtually.
Ability to move in and out of an office, classrooms, buildings, and up and down stairs.
Must possess mobility to work in a classroom.
Strength to lift and carry materials weighing up to 20 pounds.
Strength to lift and/or carry materials/items/persons weighing up to 75 pounds with assistance.
Ability to climb stairs, kneel and move easily on and off floor mats.
Ability to use good judgment and exercise tact and diplomacy in dealing with others.
Ability to respect confidential matters.
Sensitivity to and respect of the problems of children.
Traits of resourcefulness, thoroughness, initiative, patience, courtesy, dependability, and enthusiasm.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual Preferred
Prefer prior experience with working with children in a school or similar setting

Responsibilities

Prepare for classroom instructional events and other educational or non-educational activities under the supervision of a certified teacher and in accordance with student IEPs.
Assist the teacher in implementing special strategies and interventions for reinforcing material or skills based on individual student needs.
Provide positive and appropriate role models for students at all times and treat students with respect.
Assist in the teaching process and work directly with children to provide class support in academics, social skills, self-care (ADLs), and vocational tasks.
Assist and reinforce generalization in skill development and community integration.
Assist with addressing student behavior and encouraging effort in the classroom.
Ability to use Online Platforms through Google Meets and Google Classroom, etc., in person and virtually.
Complete Onboarding Process, including familiarization with and responsibility for implementation of students’ IEPs, district policies, and procedures.
Serve as a resource person about the student(s) in communicating with teachers regarding specific instruction for goal attainment.
Assist in behavioral interventions and achieve Safety Care certification (full restraint training provided).
Assist in implementing treatment plans, safety plans, and behavior plans for various students to create a successful learning experience.
Perform data collection as instructed.
Work as a member of a team with other staff members (BCBA, RBT, etc.).
Apply ABA Strategies (training provided).
Execute Discrete Trials, de-escalation techniques, and positive behavioral interventions (training provided).
Assist in toileting certain students with disabilities (if required).
Lift and carry certain students with disabilities per IEP (if required).
Work with individuals and small groups of students to reinforce material, assist with self-help and independence skills, implement remedial exercises, aid independent study, help students master instructional tasks, assist in test taking, and read to students.
Observe and make notes on student performance and behaviors.
Implement curriculum modifications or accommodations designed by professional staff.
Assist teachers with non-instructional duties, such as escorting and supervising student movement, proctoring tests, providing make-up work assistance, and toileting including diaper changing.
Assist in administrative duties, including supervision of students during breaks, lunches, community trips, covering for absent staff, supervising pupils in hallways and during drills/assemblies, assisting students outside regular assignments, and temporary administrative duties (lunchroom, recess, playground).
Set up and operate instructional and/or assistive technology equipment under the direction of the teacher.
Participate in available professional development activities appropriate to district expectations and ESP job requirements.
Perform other general duties as indicated by the Principal, Director of Special Education, Superintendent of Schools, or their designees and policies of the Haverhill School Committee.