2026-2027 Special Education Paraprofessional

Atlanta Public Schools•North Atlanta, GA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Atlanta Public Schools is looking for a self-motivated Special Education Paraprofessional to support teachers in meeting the educational, behavioral, and social emotional needs of students with disabilities in the classroom and community. This position reports to the School Principal and will be assigned to be physically present in the school building location.

Requirements

Current GA Paraprofessional Certificate; OR High School Diploma or equivalent GED AND passed GA paraprofessional assessment; OR Associate's degree or completed 2 years of study at an institution of higher education.
High School Diploma or equivalent GED required
Work experience gained through education and certification/license requirements.
Basic knowledge of childhood growth and development.
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching.
Demonstrated ability to effectively supervise children.
General knowledge of academic subjects relevant to position assignment.
Computer proficiency and ability to work effectively in an in-person learning environment.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and follow instructions.
Demonstrated ability to work well with students, staff, and parents in a professional manner.
Ability to be flexible and adapt as needed between various in-person learning environments
Knowledge of school safety & security procedures.
Excellent writing and communication skills.
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
Ability to read small print and view a computer screen for prolonged periods.
Ability to tolerate exposure to noisy conditions.
Ability to be understood in face-to-face communications, to speak with a level of proficiency and volume to be understood over a telephone or computer.
Ability to use hands to grasp, and manipulate small objects; manipulate fingers, twist and bend at wrist and elbow; extend arms to reach outward and upward; use hands and arms to lift objects; turn, raise, and lower head.
Ability to lift, push, pull and/or carry objects which weigh as much as 5 or more pounds on a frequent basis.
Incumbent may be required to physically restrain parties involved in a conflict.
Ability to encounter constant work interruptions; work cooperatively with others; work independently; work indoors.
Ability to read, write, understand, interpret and apply information at a moderately complex level essential for successful job performance; math skills at a high school proficiency level; judgement and the ability to process information quickly; learn quickly and follow verbal procedures and standards; give verbal instruction; rank tasks in order of importance; copy, compare, compile and coordinate information and records.
Understand how to manage stress.
Ability to be flexible and adapt as needed between in-person and various classroom learning environments.

Nice To Haves

Two (2) years of experience with children preferred.

Responsibilities

Supports teachers in meeting the instructional, educational, behavioral, and social emotional needs of students with disabilities in the classroom (in-person) and community.
Provides small group and/or individualized instruction to students with disabilities in accordance with the students' IEP and the supervising teacher's lesson plans.
Collects instructional and behavioral data for all objectives being taught for each student.
Implements Behavior Intervention Plans for students with disabilities.
Communicates proactively with teachers to inform them of student issues and conversations with parents.
Responds to emails and phone calls from school leaders and teachers in a timely manner.
Assists during standardized testing to support state and local testing processes and policies.
Assists with preparation of daily lesson plan materials and makes copies of materials for students (print or electronic).
Assists with distribution of food, supplies, materials and equipment, including technology.
When in a school-based learning environment, monitors students' movement throughout the building to other classrooms, learning areas and cafeteria.
Assists students with classroom and cafeteria clean up and wiping down surfaces to uphold sanitation standards as required for safe school environment.
Assists administrators and other staff members in the orderly, expedient and safe transition of students from one location to another.
Assists students as necessary with physical needs including feeding, toileting, lifting, and mobility.
Assists students with healthcare procedures including hygiene and medications as needed for daily care.
Assists students with assistive technology devices, including communication devices, switches and orthopedic devices needed for sitting, walking, or standing.
Engages in professional learning opportunities in-person.
Assists with training volunteers in-person.
Required to have prompt, regular attendance in-person and be available to work on-site, in-person during regular business hours.
Performs other duties as assigned by an appropriate administrator or their representative.