Special Education Paraprofessional

Rocketship Public Schools • Nashville, TN

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Paraprofessional is responsible for providing individual and small-group instructional support for students with both special and typical learning needs within the general education environment, including but not limited to the classroom, recess, and lunch settings. This role works under the supervision of a certificated Education Specialist, who provides ongoing coaching, weekly oversight, training, and instructional direction. This position is well suited for individuals who are passionate about supporting students with learning disabilities and who have a foundational understanding of IEPs, differentiated instruction, and inclusive learning environments. The ideal candidate is patient, flexible, and relationship-driven, with the ability to successfully support students through challenging behaviors while maintaining a positive and structured learning environment. Strong collaboration and communication skills are essential, as Paraprofessionals partner closely with teachers and school staff to reinforce student goals, redirect behavior when needed, keep students engaged and on task, and ensure all learners are supported academically, socially, and emotionally throughout the school day.

Requirements

• A team player who is detail-oriented, resourceful and able to manage his/her responsibility with confidence and discretion
• Comfort in a start-up environment with flexibility
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy
• Passion for working with young children
• At least 2 years of college or passing score on Rocketship's Paraprofessional Assessment required
• Experience working with students with disabilities preferred

Responsibilities

• Implement individual and small group instruction for students special education needs under the direction of the special education case manager
• Collaborate with students' case managers to assess student progress towards goals on a consistent basis; communicate student progress with case managers and general education teachers
• Collaborate with all staff members to ensure that all students have consistent and well-coordinated support and communicate effectively with colleagues and contribute to positive staff culture
• Partner with families on the academic and social progress and needs of a student
• Provide accommodations and/or modifications to learners with disabilities to provide access to grade level content and demonstrate her or his true understanding on assessments as determined by the IEP team in collaboration with general educators
• Ensure that all students realize rigorous academic goals outlined in their IEP along with our core content. Our goal is that each Rocketeer grows at least 1.5 years
• Implement behavior management strategies during small group and individual instruction in order to support student engagement
• Manage student behavior for the purpose of providing a safe and optimal learning environment
• Collect and provide feedback for the development of Behavior Support Plans (BSPs) or Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) as needed
• Assist in the implementation of BIPs, which may involve positive reinforcement strategies, behavior modification, or other skills to maintain appropriate behaviors
• Record data for individualized instructional programs and positive behavior support plans
• Support a spectrum of needs for life skills, including but not limited to: toileting and diapering, assist with hygiene, feeding and other daily life skills
• Provide appropriate crisis intervention as necessary using the least restrictive method by anticipating and responding quickly and appropriately to escalating behaviors

Benefits

• Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree