Special Education Paraprofessional

The Vanguard School•Colorado Springs, CO

48d•Onsite

About The Position

The Special Education Paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, and functional support to students receiving special education services. Working under the supervision of licensed special education staff, this position assists students in achieving academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and functional goals outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and other educational plans. The ideal candidate is student-focused, collaborative, patient, and committed to supporting students with diverse learning needs in a positive and inclusive educational environment.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required.
Experience working with children preferred.
Experience supporting students with disabilities, behavioral needs, or diverse learning needs preferred.
School-based experience preferred but not required.
Ability to build positive relationships with students.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative team.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
Strong organizational and time-management skills.
Ability to remain calm and effective during challenging situations.
Ability to follow directions and implement instructional and behavioral plans consistently.
Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and movement throughout the school day.
Ability to assist students with physical needs as required.
Ability to occasionally lift, move, or support up to 50 pounds.
Ability to participate in approved physical management and safety interventions when necessary (training provided).

Responsibilities

Provide academic, behavioral, and physical assistance to students with disabilities in individual, small-group, and classroom settings.
Support implementation of student accommodations, modifications, and goals outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 Plans.
Assist students with organization, task completion, and classroom participation.
Reinforce instructional concepts and learning activities under the direction of certified staff.
Promote student independence while providing appropriate levels of support.
Assist in implementing behavior intervention plans and classroom behavior management strategies.
Support students who may demonstrate challenging, disruptive, aggressive, or unsafe behaviors.
Utilize approved de-escalation and behavior management techniques (training provided upon hire).
Maintain a calm, supportive, and professional approach when addressing student behavioral needs.
Work collaboratively with special education teachers, general education teachers, related service providers, administrators, and families as appropriate.
Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
Communicate effectively regarding student progress, concerns, and support needs.
Maintain confidentiality regarding student records and educational information.
Assist with preparation and organization of instructional materials and classroom resources.
Maintain accurate records, data collection, and documentation as assigned.
Provide clerical support for special education services and student programming.
Support compliance requirements related to special education documentation and reporting.
Positively represent The Vanguard School and its mission to students, families, staff, and community members.
Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and flexibility in daily responsibilities.
Support the educational goals and initiatives of the Student Services Department.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.