Special Education Paraprofessional (McCaul School)

CAPS Collaborative•Leominster, MA

About The Position

CAPS Collaborative is seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic paraprofessional to support students with multiple disabilities, medical fragility, and/or moderate to severe disabilities, including autism. The paraprofessional assists a certified teacher with specially designed instructional and non-instructional activities. The work regularly involves providing individual and small-group academic and emotional support so students can participate and learn. The role includes supporting students’ instructional, therapy, self-care, and daily living needs, while working collaboratively with teachers and other team members.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma required.
Excellent reading, writing, and mathematical skills.
Ability to make sound judgments and decisions and deal with people in a variety of situations.
Ability to work cooperatively as a team member and communicate effectively in writing and orally.
Flexibility and willingness to learn new skills and devote the time and effort required for assignments.
Ability to exercise universal precautions and tolerate frequent management of bodily fluids.
Ability to demonstrate physical control and restraint positions when physical control is necessary as a last resort due to dangerous behavior.
Ability to navigate all areas of the school quickly, including indoor and outdoor areas.
Ability to reach, grasp, and handle objects using the upper extremities.
Ability to lift up to 15 pounds at times; other lifting and student-handling demands are described in the posting.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with students with multiple disabilities, medical fragility, or moderate to severe disabilities, including autism.
ABA or behavioral background.
Associate degree or two years of college.

Responsibilities

Carry out instructional programs that meet students’ individual learning needs.
Implement and model interventions and instruction designed for students with intensive special needs.
Collect data as directed by the lead teacher.
Advocate for students’ needs.
Communicate effectively with students, staff, and team members, including giving and receiving feedback.
Provide individual and small-group instruction throughout the classroom and school environment.
Change diapers and dress or redress students as needed.
Put on and remove student equipment, including body jackets, AFOs, Swash braces, and splints.
Carry out therapy carryover skills with students.
Assist students with self-care and activities of daily living as needed.
Assist ambulatory students with visual impairments or unsteady movement.
Move and reposition students, push and pull students in wheelchairs, and lift or carry objects and classroom equipment as required.
Maintain student and family confidentiality and regular attendance.
Perform delegated duties, take responsibility for professional development, and learn and carry out new assignments.