Paraprofessionals/Teacher Assistants SY 26-27

Portsmouth School Department • Portsmouth, RI

9h • Onsite

About The Position

Paraprofessionals assist teachers with instructional duties and help provide a safe learning environment. They work in classrooms with small groups or individual students, supporting academic, self-help, communication, mobility, socialization, self-regulatory, and positive behavioral interaction skills. The role involves working cooperatively with classroom and support professionals, developing effective relationships with students and adults, and demonstrating patience, consistency, flexibility, tolerance, and empathy. Duties may include specialized instructional or therapeutic tasks that are unique to a student or classroom; job-embedded professional development may be provided through an outside consultant as determined by the administration. The anticipated openings involve working with students who have social-emotional learning needs. Locations are Melville Elementary School (8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.) and Portsmouth Middle School (7:45 a.m.–2:45 p.m.).

Candidates with proof of registration in a RIDE-approved Teacher Assistant course may qualify for immediate employment on step with paid leave and medical benefits while working toward certification. Employees must obtain Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification within one year of employment. The school department will reimburse employees for the RBT course; this requirement is waived for the 2026/2027 school year.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Maintain strict confidentiality.
• Hold a valid paraprofessional certificate with instructional qualifications required by the Rhode Island Department of Education, or provide proof of registration in an approved RIDE Teacher Assistant Training Course.
• Complete a RIDE-approved Teacher Assistant Pre-Employment Training Program, subject to stated exceptions for candidates with another state’s TA certification or an associate’s or bachelor’s degree plus coursework or training consistent with program standards.
• Meet one of the following: pass the ParaPro Assessment; complete at least two years of study at an institution of higher education; or obtain an associate’s degree or higher.
• Pass a National Criminal Records Check with no disqualifying information.
• Attend Safety Care training and be able to participate as part of a Safety Care team.
• Work sensitively and effectively with children; understand and follow oral and written instructions; learn assigned duties readily and follow classroom procedures.
• Be able to assist with lifting and toileting and follow a toileting plan when serving as primary student support personnel and another support person is absent.
• Obtain Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification within one year of employment; the posting states this requirement is waived for the 2026/2027 school year.
• Additional training may be required if deemed necessary for the position.
• Meet the physical requirements, including communicating and exchanging information in person and by telephone; operating a computer keyboard and handling paper; observing students and reviewing documentation; managing multiple demands and deadlines; remaining stationary for extended periods in indoor and outdoor environments; moving as needed to maintain a safe learning environment; retrieving items overhead and horizontally; and moving or transporting moderately heavy objects.
• Have stamina for a full workday and potentially attending meetings or supervising evening events.

Responsibilities

• Adhere to Portsmouth School Department policies and promote the District’s mission, vision, and strategic plan.
• Assist with small-group and individual classroom instruction.
• Follow teacher direction in assisting or supporting other students in the classroom or building.
• Assist with data collection procedures and provide transitional support to students.
• Demonstrate knowledge of disabilities covered by IDEA and assist with differential reinforcement and appropriate alternative responses in behavior programs or plans.
• Use prompts and redirection strategies, follow routines and picture schedules, and maintain consistent responses to students.
• Attend to students’ personal needs, including dressing, washing, feeding, and diaper changing.
• Demonstrate proficiency in required computer and technology applications.
• Prioritize and respond professionally and efficiently to student and teacher needs and requests.
• Support students’ social-emotional learning, implement team-developed behavior intervention plans, and track implementation data.
• Perform duties specific to supporting students with developmental, cognitive, learning, physical, and/or social-emotional disabilities.
• Assist with student supervision during emergency drills, assemblies, play periods, field trips, and other activities as needed.
• Work collegially with other professionals to help create and maintain a positive learning environment.
• Assist with lifting and toileting of students, including following toileting plans when required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Paid leave and medical benefits are available while working toward certification for candidates who provide proof of registration in a RIDE-approved Teacher Assistant course.
• Reimbursement for the RBT course; the requirement is waived for the 2026/2027 school year.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED