Special Education Paraprofessional - Essential Life Skills

West Springfield Public Schools •West Springfield, MA

44d•$18 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

The paraprofessional in the Individualized Learning Program classroom supports students with developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and other special needs by providing instructional, behavioral, and personal care assistance under the direction of the classroom teacher and special education staff. The role involves reinforcing life skills instruction, promoting independence, and ensuring a safe, supportive environment for all students.

Requirements

Associate's Degree or completion of 48 college credits, or a passing score on the WorkKeys Assessment.
Citizenship, residency, or work visa required.
Demonstrated aptitude and patience for working with students with significant special needs.
Ability to follow written and oral directions and work collaboratively as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

Associate's Degree preferred.
Experience working with students with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities is preferred.

Responsibilities

Work with individual students or small groups to reinforce academic, social, and functional life skills under the guidance of the classroom teacher.
Provide support for students in areas such as hygiene, personal care, toileting, feeding, and mobility, as needed.
Assist students during classroom activities, community-based instruction, vocational tasks, and other functional life skill opportunities.
Help implement behavior intervention plans and support students in developing appropriate social and coping skills.
Alert the teacher to any concerns, changes, or special information about students.
Participate in in-service training programs and professional development as assigned.
Guide students in completing independent work, enrichment, and remedial activities.
Relate to students in a positive, supportive manner that reflects the teacher's instructional and behavioral expectations.
Supervise students safely in classroom, community, and school environments.
Perform other related duties as assigned by the teacher or building administrator.