Paraprofessional - Smithton Middle School (2026-27)

Columbia•Columbia, MO

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This position will provide appropriate instruction/support to students who require special education services under the supervision of a teacher. Paraprofessionals are identified as Level 1, 2 or 3 based on their specific assignment. Higher levels are paid at an increased rate due to the specific nature of the assignment. Paraprofessional 1, Paraprofessional 2, Paraprofessional 3 are based on the child’s advanced needs in Public Separate Day Programs.

Requirements

Completion of the 20-hour Substitute Training Course or Passing of the Paraprofessional Exam.
Read, comprehend, and produce written and oral instructions, correspondence, and memos.
Communicate one-on-one and in small groups.
Add, subtract multiply and divide 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.
Solve problems involving concrete variables within standardized situations.
Perform basic computer skills including word processing and basic data-entry related to student needs on district-provided technology.
Readily utilize smart boards, projectors and other instructional technology provided by the district.
Adhere to all District policies and procedures regarding technology usage.
Establish and maintain positive relationships with students, faculty and staff while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
Identify needs and abilities of individual students and adapt instructional methods accordingly.
Perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
Frequently stand, stoop, bend and kneel.
Frequently move throughout the building and must be able to walk long distances.
Physically assist students with feeding, self-care, and toilet tasks.
Regularly lift 30 pounds.
Regularly lift students and assist them with movement.
Have both close and distance vision.
Consistent and regular attendance is an essential function of this position.

Nice To Haves

Official Transcripts with 60 hours of college credit.
Prior experience in a school setting and/or working with young people.
A professional and friendly demeanor with a demonstrated ability to work well with a variety of individuals in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Prepare student material and reinforce previously taught material as described by the teacher.
Manage student behavior and classroom organization, implement policies, rules and/or regulations.
Provide direct caregiving services (i.e., feeding, toileting, personal care) under the supervision of teachers and staff.
Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students.
Respond in a calm manner 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 and document participation of required yearly in-service training (10 to 15 hours).
Adhere to district policies and departmental, building and classroom procedures.
Understand and adhere to Board policies and procedures.
Attend/keep current on restraint and other advanced training, if applicable as directed by the Special Education Director; apply knowledge and procedures to student situations when appropriate to respond to crises.
Perform other duties as necessary to support the mission and vision of the Columbia Public School District.