Specialized Support Paraprofessional

Arlington Public Schools•Arlington, MA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Arlington Public Schools seeks a Specialized Support Paraprofessional (SSP) to support educators and help students access the curriculum in general education and special education settings. The role includes supporting students with social-emotional and behavioral challenges, implementing instructional modifications and behavior plans, and collaborating with educators, support staff, families, and other professionals. This position is for 183 days, with 7.00 hours of work per day. The SSP reports to the Special Education Coordinators and Building Principals. Benefits eligibility includes health, dental, and life insurance, as well as participation in the Town of Arlington Retirement System.

Requirements

Associate degree required.
Experience working with children.
Ability to coordinate and work as a member of a team that includes the principal, classroom teacher, special educators, other building staff, related service personnel, clinicians, and parents.
Experience with and demonstrated ability to support students with social-emotional and behavioral challenges.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Specialized training such as Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) or equivalent preferred.

Responsibilities

Establish emotionally supportive rapport with students.
Travel with students to general education classes as needed.
Accurately implement content, instructional, and performance modifications designed by the classroom teacher, special education liaison, and BCBA.
Ensure information is shared with other support personnel when the paraprofessional is on scheduled breaks.
Participate in classroom planning and other organizational meetings, and in professional development as determined by the principal and/or special education department.
Greet students upon arrival at school, assist with student dismissal, and debrief with the teacher at the end of the day.
Implement behavior management plans as written.
Assist with crisis management plans, including physical management under behavior management protocols when required.