Special Education Paraprofessional - Resource

Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools • Prior Lake, MN

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Special Education Paraprofessional supports special education staff and students by assisting with educational activities, providing academic support, and monitoring student behavior and safety across diverse school settings. The role is based at Prior Lake High School and works student contact days for 6.75 hours per day, including a 0.5-hour unpaid lunch (6.25 paid hours). The start date is ASAP. Employment terms follow the Minnesota School Employees Association Non-Certified Student Support Personnel collective bargaining agreement. The position is non-exempt and pays $19.81–$22.25 per hour under Category B 2025–26 rates.

The paraprofessional supports students with disabilities and assists with implementing instructional plans, accommodations, and behavior plans as directed by special education staff. The position may involve assisting with students’ personal care needs and working in classrooms and other school settings. The employee is expected to maintain confidentiality, support an inclusive learning environment, and communicate and collaborate with teachers and administrators.

Work takes place in special education and general education classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, gymnasiums, playgrounds, and multipurpose rooms. The role requires mobility and stamina, including standing, walking, bending, and crouching for extended periods; lifting and moving objects or equipment weighing up to 50 pounds; monitoring student behavior; communicating in varied environments; and responding to safety concerns and changing situations.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Meet at least one of the following educational criteria: an associate degree or higher; a minimum of 60 college semester credits; or Highly Qualified status through completion of the ParaEducator or ParaPro exam.
• Candidates who do not meet one of the listed educational criteria must successfully pass the ParaEducator exam within 30 days of hire.
• Maintain any required licenses and certificates in active status without suspension or revocation; the posting lists no specific certificates or registrations as applicable.
• Knowledge of district policies, procedures, and behavioral intervention standards.
• Knowledge of confidentiality requirements for student records and special education data, including FERPA.
• Basic understanding of emergency response, student safety protocols, and incident reporting.
• Ability to work effectively with students exhibiting mild to severe physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities.
• Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds as needed to support student personal care or physical needs.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills, including the ability to manage student behavior and de-escalate challenging situations.
• Clear and professional communication with supervising teachers, special education staff, administrators, and students.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, crouch, and move for extended periods in varied indoor and outdoor educational settings.
• Visual ability to monitor student behavior, track data, and read written materials; hearing and verbal communication skills to interact effectively and manage conflicts.
• Mental alertness and emotional resilience to implement behavior plans and respond quickly to safety concerns or changing situations.

Responsibilities

• Support and monitor students in classrooms, hallways, lunchrooms, transitions, and other educational settings to promote a safe, inclusive, and productive environment.
• Conduct objective observations, maintain accurate student data logs, and prepare or organize instructional materials for teaching staff.
• Assist with implementing student programs and specialized instructional plans, including IEP accommodations and behavior plans, as directed by special education staff.
• Assist with students’ personal care needs while maintaining dignity, safety, and hygiene standards.
• Demonstrate sensitivity, cultural competence, and respect for students’ and families’ diverse backgrounds and value systems.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records, medical history, and special education data in accordance with district policies and legal requirements such as FERPA.
• Promote positive student behavior using approved intervention strategies and established school and classroom expectations.
• Communicate and collaborate with supervising teachers, special education staff, and school administration regarding student progress or concerns.
• Perform other duties related to special education program needs as assigned by the building principal or supervising teacher.

Benefits

• Single health insurance and district contribution toward single dental insurance.
• Comprehensive health insurance plan with coverage for employees and family members.
• Dental insurance coverage options for routine and preventive care.
• Life insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program for employees and family members at no cost.
• Optional medical and dependent care flexible spending accounts.

What This Job Offers

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