Special Education Aide

Framingham Public Schools • Framingham, MA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Special Education Aide for the Autism Program at McCarthy Elementary School for the 2026-2027 School Year. This role involves assisting students with disabilities, under the direction of a certified teacher, in a substantially separate program for students with Autism. The Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) program serves students who require intensive social-pragmatic, academic, and behavioral support. The programs utilize intensive behavioral training through ABA, discrete trial training, task analysis, floor time, and total communication techniques to develop social skills and academic readiness. The program integrates social/developmental and behavioral approaches to address the educational challenges of this student population. A $1,500 stipend is available for paraprofessionals working in an Autism classroom, multi-disabilities classroom, or supporting students with toileting needs.

Requirements

• Associate (or higher) degree, or at least two years of post-secondary education that is equivalent to at least 48 credit hours from an accredited higher education institution (otherwise must pass the Parapro Test).
• Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to present information clearly and respond effectively to questions from students, staff, parents, and community members.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional literature, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.
• Sound reasoning and problem-solving skills to evaluate information, define problems, collect data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, and recommend appropriate courses of action.
• Capacity to use professional literature, evidence-based research, and ongoing professional learning to inform instructional and practice decisions.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with students, families, colleagues, and the community.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects.
• Commitment to performing all duties in compliance with district requirements, state and federal laws, and Framingham Public Schools policies.
• Demonstrated cultural proficiency and competence in working with students and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and student records.
• Professionalism and composure in responding to unpredictable or challenging situations.
• Proficiency in using technology and willingness to learn new tools; ability to operate a computer and utilize software, including Google Workspace for Education.
• Willingness to plan, coordinate, and participate in ongoing professional learning, coaching, and staff development.
• Experience in evaluating student skills, interpreting assessment data, and writing clear, concise reports.
• Strong collaborative, instructional, coaching, and leadership skills to support student programming.
• Ability to use data effectively to inform instructional decisions and improve student outcomes.
• Knowledge of specialized content areas, relevant laws, and educational procedures.
• Ability to plan and implement lessons that align with district and school goals.
• Proficiency in integrating instructional technology to enhance teaching and learning.
• A proactive, reflective, and solution-focused approach to supporting student growth and success.

Nice To Haves

• Some experience working with children, especially students with disabilities in the areas of Autism, Developmental Delays, Multiple Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, and Emotional Disabilities, is preferred.
• Additional specialized training in child development, education, or a related field is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the instruction and supervision of students, supporting students academically, socially, and behaviorally in inclusion, small group, individual, or separate sub-setting with direction from the classroom teacher and/or special education teacher, service provider, or administrator.
• Support students with special needs by following the provisions specified in their Individual Education Program (IEP).
• Assist students with test taking in administering standardized and non-standardized tests/curriculum-based measures, and other assessments.
• Provide support that may include physical management, such as crisis management, taking action, or assisting educators, the school crisis team, and/or administrators in restraining students who are at risk of harming themselves or others by following school/district-approved restraint procedures to ensure the safety of students and others (training provided).
• Attend training and maintain certification in de-escalation and physical management techniques.
• Collect data for individual students and report concerns and/or progress information for each student.
• Escort and supervise students to and from various school facilities and areas.
• Take the initiative to work collaboratively with special education, general education, teachers, and related service staff.
• Assist in establishing a positive learning environment and respond to the individual needs of students.
• Assist students with everyday tasks such as eating, mobility, communication, dressing, and toileting, including diapering.
• Promote independence for students with disabilities.
• Safeguard confidential information to ensure compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
• Responsible for other general duties as indicated by the teacher, principal, supervisors/directors, directives of the Superintendent of Schools or their designee, and policies of the Framingham School Committee.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• A $1,500 stipend is available to any paraprofessional who works in an Autism classroom, multi-disabilities classroom, or is on a changing team for a student with toileting needs.
• Information about amazing benefits is available via a provided link.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree