K-12 | Special Education Paraprofessional (Tempe)
About The Position
Accel is a private, nonprofit organization serving children and young adults with special needs, ages 5–22. It provides individualized educational, therapeutic, vocational, behavioral, life skills, and transitional services to people with a wide range of disabilities and health impairments. The Special Education Paraprofessional works closely with classroom teachers to support students’ learning, communication, physical, and behavioral needs, individually and in small groups. This is a hands-on role in a structured environment that calls for patience, consistency, and a genuine interest in supporting people with special needs. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., for a 10-month school-year position running August through May. School breaks and observed federal holidays are paid. The role is suited to someone compassionate, dependable, self-motivated, and eager to learn. Employment is contingent upon successfully completing a required background check.
Requirements
- High school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma.
- Must have or be able to obtain a Fingerprint Clearance Card.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must successfully complete QBS Safety Care Crisis Intervention Training.
- Must be able to stand, walk, possibly run, and move throughout the day; bend; and lift up to 50 pounds.
- Must be comfortable supporting behavior management strategies under the guidance of trained staff.
- Successful completion of a required background check is a condition of employment.
Responsibilities
- Help students develop independence, emotional regulation, social skills, and progress toward academic goals in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Follow behavior intervention plans consistently and compassionately.
- Record real-time data on student progress, observations, and behaviors to support the IEP process.
- Set up and maintain classroom centers, stations, and instructional materials.
- Assist students with personal hygiene and toileting routines.
- Assist with meal preparation and implement prescribed feeding programs.
- Support transitions between activities, classrooms, and programs.
- Collaborate with the classroom teacher on lesson plans and paperwork to help the classroom run smoothly.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Life insurance and supplemental insurance options.
- Paid time off and paid sick leave.
- 401(k) retirement plan.
- Tuition reimbursement program.
- Health Savings Account options.
- Paid school breaks, including fall, Thanksgiving, winter, and spring breaks.
- Observed federal holidays, which often create three-day weekends.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
