Para - SPED Life Skills - 20274016

Clover Park School District • Lakewood, WA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Special Education Paraeducator II supports students with special education needs, including Life Skills students in grades K–12 who require small-group settings and have significant developmental delays. The role assists teachers in implementing educational programs through assigned instruction, behavior management, classroom preparation, and personal care. Students may be supported at the elementary or secondary level. Paraeducators work under the general direction of the building administrator and the specific direction of the classroom teacher. Life Skills support may include helping students develop skills for independent functioning through the Life Skills Curriculum.

The position is classified as E-2, is non-exempt, and is affiliated with ESPCP. The work year is 191 days, with a stated schedule of 6.75 hours per day and a shift of 8:45 a.m.–3:00 p.m. The hourly wage range is $29.23–$32.73. Work takes place in regular school buildings throughout the district. Employment is conditional on completion of required Washington State Patrol and FBI fingerprint background checks.

Requirements

• High school diploma or recognized equivalent (GED).
• Meet at least one qualifying paraeducator education or assessment pathway: pass an assessment approved by the Professional Educator Standards Board; hold an associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university; have at least 72 quarter credits or 48 semester credits at the 100 level or higher from an accredited college or university; or complete a registered paraeducator apprenticeship.
• Two years of successful work experience with special education students.
• For approved assessments, meet the applicable passing score: EST ParaPathways Reading and Writing 324 and Mathematics 325; ETS ParaPro 455 before August 31, 2026; Pearson Paraprofessional 220; or Master Teacher Inc. 65%. A passing score on each of the two assessments is required for certification.
• Knowledge of classroom and behavior-management techniques, special education terminology, lifting, toileting and feeding techniques, restraint techniques, and verbal de-escalation.
• Ability to work independently and learn operations, procedures, processes, and equipment use.
• Skill in handling, storing, and transmitting confidential information in compliance with FERPA and HIPAA requirements.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and knowledge of proper lifting techniques.
• Ability to communicate and interact clearly, concisely, courteously, and respectfully with students, families, volunteers, teachers, and other staff from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to adjust to new and different working conditions.
• Ability to learn and implement medical intervention techniques under the direction of a knowledgeable professional.
• Complete fingerprinting and a background check.
• Hold a First Aid and CPR card.
• Complete district-provided Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) as required by PESB; listed exceptions include Bus Para, In School Suspension Para, Library Para, and Preschool Para positions.
• Complete Right Response training within 90 days of hire.
• For positions located on JBLM, be able to obtain and maintain installation access in compliance with the REAL ID Act and applicable access requirements.

Nice To Haves

• College credits with a major in education, psychology, counseling, behavior intervention, or social work.
• Three or more years of special education paraeducator experience in a public-school setting.

Responsibilities

• Assist with IEP preparation and monitor due-process timelines for reevaluations and IEPs under the special education teacher’s guidance.
• Help prepare and implement behavior-management techniques, educational and vocational instruction, and vocational placement programs.
• Provide instruction to students in large groups, small groups, or one-to-one as assigned and directed by the special education teacher.
• Assist students with hygiene and personal care, including lifting, toileting, washing, and feeding.
• Following required training and under licensed nursing staff direction, provide or assist with medication and medical treatments, which may include catheterization, nasogastric feedings, suctioning, glucose checks or insulin injections, seizure management, and individualized emergency medical plans.
• Administer assessment instruments or assist the special education teacher with their administration.
• Prepare classroom materials for students, teachers, and parents, including typing, hand-drawing, reproducing, and collating materials.
• Maintain the class during the special education teacher’s absence.
• Supervise students during lunch, recess, bus transitions, assemblies, and movement to other building locations.
• Use a personal computer and office equipment to enter data and produce correspondence and reports.
• Maintain student records and files under the special education teacher’s direction, including FTE counts, month-end reports, schedules, attendance, credits earned, and graduation requirements.
• Monitor three-year evaluations for state compliance when assigned.
• Transport or accompany students on field trips and other outings when assigned.
• Assist with student profiles for educational and vocational planning.
• Work with high-risk students who display significant behavior concerns associated with their disabilities when assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Employees anticipated to work 630 hours during the school year are eligible for medical, dental, and vision insurance, long-term disability insurance, and basic life insurance.
• Eligible employees are required to participate in a Washington State Department of Retirement Systems plan.
• Eligible employees may participate in tax-deferred 403(b) and 457 Deferred Compensation Plans.

What This Job Offers

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