Preschool Program Specialized Assistant

Mt. Mansfield UUSD•Jericho, VT

About The Position

Join a Growing Vision for Early Excellence! The Mount Mansfield Unified Union School District preschool program is expanding! We are seeking energetic, caring, and flexible professionals to join our team for the 2026-2027 school year. As we move toward a consistent, 5-day-a-week district-wide model, we are looking for dedicated Specialized Assistants who thrives in a collaborative team environment. We offer a supportive work environment where your professional growth is valued and your heart for children is celebrated. The Role: As a Preschool Paraprofessional, you will work closely with lead teachers and service providers to create an inclusive, nurturing, and organized classroom. Your primary focus is to provide one-on-one or small-group support to ensure every child—regardless of their starting point—can participate, grow, and thrive. The assistant provides essential support to our youngest learners and serves as a bridge to success for all children.

Requirements

High School diploma or has completed a GED, and meets one of the following qualifications: At least successful completion of a 3 college credit course in child or human development or 3 college credit course for school age care and education and at least 12 months experience working with groups of children from grade 3 or younger or At least successful completion of the Fundamentals for Early Childhood Professionals’ course or the Vermont Afterschool Essentials Certificate and at least 12 months experience working with groups of children from grade 3 or younger.
Adults & Pediatric First Aid & CPR Certification (within 3 months of start date)
Completion of the Online Mandatory Reporter Training (2.5 hrs)

Nice To Haves

Passionate & Caring: Has a genuine love for early childhood development and a deep-seated belief in the potential of every child.
Adaptable: Understands that "plan A" doesn't always work with three- or four-year-olds and can pivot gracefully and stay calm under pressure.
Team Player: Comfortable in a support role, understanding that assistant contributions are the backbone of a successful classroom.
Energetic: Ready to get down on the floor, play, and keep up with the physical demands of a busy preschool setting.
Experience: Has worked with young children, specifically those with diverse learning needs or disabilities.

Responsibilities

Individualized Support: Implement specialized instructional plans (IEPs) and behavioral strategies tailored to specific student needs.
Team Collaboration: Work seamlessly with lead teachers and specialists, maintaining open communication and a "how can I help?" attitude.
Classroom Dynamics: Assist in managing daily routines, transitions, and play-based learning activities with an energetic, positive, and nurturing presence.
Observation & Communication: Maintain awareness of student well-being and support needs and continuously communicate with the preschool team.
Nurturing Environment: Provide a safe, caring space where children feel seen, heard, and supported emotionally.
Works the hours and days as required for the individual student or program that would be consistent with the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Implements instruction and support under the supervision of a licensed special educator and/or Related Service Provider and for which they have received specialized training to implement.
Provide consistent and on-going communication with the classroom teacher and special education case manager or other support individuals.
Implement general program materials as instructed by the classroom teacher or special educator.
Attends team meetings as requested.
Assists with supervision of students during emergency drills, assemblies and field trips.
Utilizes appropriate building systems for communicating questions and/or concerns.
Reports all student safety issues to immediate supervisor and/or building administrator.
Participates in a performance review at least annually with immediate supervisor or building administrator.
Provides assistance/first aid for students in the absence/unavailability of school nurse.
Development of student lessons and material development, under the direction of a licensed teacher.
May participate in parent conference activities to report student progress.
Other duties as assigned by the special educator, classroom teacher, building principal, or Director of Early Childhood.