Paraprofessional - Eliot Battle Elementary (2026-27)

Columbia•Columbia, MO

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Provides instruction and support to students who require special education services under the supervision of a teacher. Paraprofessionals are assigned to Levels 1, 2, or 3 based on the nature of their specific assignment; higher levels receive an increased rate of pay. The position supports student learning, caregiving, behavior management, and classroom organization while following district, departmental, building, and classroom policies and procedures. The role requires regular participation in a noisy, active school environment and may involve outdoor duties, including loading and unloading students from district transportation and supervising recess.

Requirements

Complete the 20-hour Substitute Training Course, pass the Paraprofessional Exam, or provide an official transcript showing 60 or more semester hours of college credit.
Read, comprehend, and produce written and oral instructions, correspondence, and memos; communicate one-on-one and in small groups.
Perform basic arithmetic using units of American money, weight, volume, and distance.
Understand and follow verbal and written instructions; interpret instructions presented in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form; and solve problems involving concrete variables in standardized situations.
Perform basic computer skills, including word processing and basic data entry related to student needs, using district-provided technology; use smart boards, projectors, and other instructional technology; and follow district technology policies.
Establish and maintain positive relationships with students, faculty, and staff while maintaining professional boundaries.
Identify individual students’ needs and abilities and adapt instructional methods accordingly.
Perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
Frequently stand, stoop, bend, kneel, move throughout the building, and walk long distances.
Physically assist students with feeding, self-care, toileting, and movement; regularly lift 30 pounds and regularly lift students whose size and weight vary by age and grade level.
Be able to quickly follow or catch up to a mobile student and redirect the student to the appropriate class or activity.
Have close and distance vision.
Maintain consistent and regular attendance.
Work in a noisy, active school environment and perform outdoor tasks, such as loading and unloading students from district transportation and supervising recess.

Nice To Haves

Official transcript showing 60 or more semester hours of college credit, prior experience in a school setting and/or working with young people.
Professional and friendly demeanor and demonstrated ability to work well with a variety of individuals in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Prepare student materials and reinforce previously taught material as described by the teacher.
Manage student behavior and classroom organization, and implement applicable policies, rules, and regulations.
Provide direct caregiving services, including feeding, toileting, and personal care, under the supervision of teachers and staff.
Take necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students and respond calmly to students displaying aggressive behaviors.
Meet and/or escort students at designated times.
Demonstrate a positive and cooperative attitude when performing tasks.
Maintain confidentiality of information about students and employees.
Attend required yearly in-service training, totaling 10 to 15 hours, and document participation.
Adhere to district policies and departmental, building, and classroom procedures, including Board policies and procedures.
For Paraprofessional 2 and 3 assignments, attend and keep current on restraint and other advanced training when applicable and as directed by the Special Education Director, and apply relevant knowledge and procedures in student crisis situations.
Perform other duties as necessary to support the mission and vision of the Columbia Public School District.