Special Education Paraeducator

St. Mary's County Public Schools•Mechanicsville, MD

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Special Education Paraeducator works under the direction of the building administrator, classroom teacher and other school/central office resource staff to provide services and support to students with disabilities and to support the full implementation of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) /Individual and Family Service Plan (IFSP).

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED
Forty-eight (48) semester college credits OR a passing score on one of the following Paraprofessional Assessments (documents must be uploaded in application): ParaPro – prior to August 2026, ParaPathways -5757 Foundations of Classroom Support – 517, Foundations of Classroom Support and Instruction - 519
Ability to professionally relate to and collaborate with co-workers, students, and community members
Ability to understand and maintain confidentiality
Ability to use technology effectively to complete tasks
Ability to report to work daily and on time
Ability to work independently
Ability to follow both written and verbal instructions
Ability to work under pressure
Possess knowledge of the programs, policies, and procedures of the St. Mary’s County Public School System
Possess effective organizational skills
Possess effective written and oral communication skills

Nice To Haves

Related college classes or training
Experience working with children
For Pre-K paraeducators : must have an associate degree OR CDA licensure by July 1, 2027, OR 5 years of publicly funded Pre-K experience prior to July 1, 2024

Responsibilities

Assists students with developmental needs with adaptive and daily living skills, which may include movement, toileting, feeding, dressing, self-help, and positioning in adaptive equipment/devices
Meets with the teacher on a regular basis to plan for and review instructional programs
Implements instructional/behavioral plans and protocols in accordance with the student’s Individualized Education Program/Individual and Family Service Plan
Collects data on academic/behavioral programs as directed by the special education teacher and school-based/county-based administrators
Provides instructional/behavioral/self-help assistance to students as necessary throughout the school day
Possesses and maintains CPI certifications when assigned to regional programs (COMPASS, TIDES, SAIL, LAP, PSSE, and Infants & Toddlers)
Maintains appropriate safety standards while assisting students during arrival and departure times
Assists the teacher and/or other professionals in record keeping
Keeps required materials readily available for follow-up activities
Operates and maintains equipment specific to their assigned area
Assists teachers with preparation of classroom-based materials, appropriate learning activities and supports
Accompanies and supports students to special areas classes, related arts, lunch/recess, and field trips
Performs other related and non-related job duties as assigned