SPED Para Educator VSA

Springfield Public Schools•Springfield, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Special Education Paraprofessional holds primary responsibility for overseeing the implementation of effective, rigorous academic and behavior intervention systems with a small case load of students. The Special Education Paraprofessional will work closely with a small case load of students who need additional supports to be successful in the classroom. This individual will support those students, their families, and their teachers in an effort to fundamentally change the successes they are realizing. Springfield Public Schools is a cultural gem in Western Massachusetts that is committed to providing a learning environment that opens the doors of infinite possibilities to our amazing students and staff. We strive to equip each of our approximately 24,000 students with learning experiences that enhance their knowledge and critical thinking skills. We are the 3rd largest district in Massachusetts. Our district has over 44 languages spoken and over 60 countries represented by both students and staff. We foster a positive and professional environment in our schools and worksites where people feel valued, respected, supported, seen and heard. Our students and staff share their ideas and perspectives, learning from and appreciating each other. We are a district that is committed to equity and excellence.

Requirements

A passionate belief in SPS's mission, values, and educational model
An extraordinarily high bar for student behavior and expectations
An eagerness to set ambitious, challenging, and tangible goals, and a relentless drive to achieve them
An ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment and a capacity to remain calm and focused when faced with unexpected challenges
Proven track-record of high achievement
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including strong public speaking skills
A sense of humility in the face of success
Drive to improve the minds and lives of students in and out of the classroom
A high-school diploma or GED
Sixty (60) Credit Hours of College Coursework or an Associate’s Degree, or a passing score on one of the two following Formalized Standardized Assessments: ParaPro Assessment or WorkKeys Certificate of Proficiency for Teacher Assistants
Current authorization to work in the United States – A candidate must have such authorization by his or her first day of employment
A passing score on the Work Keys Exams in the following areas: Reading: 5 Math: 4 Writing: 3

Responsibilities

Work alongside an experienced special educator to support a small case load of students, driving the academic achievement of students with moderate to severe need
Implement an effective, rigorous academic and behavior intervention system with a small case load of students
Provide consistent and high academic and behavioral expectations
Support student mastery of state, city, and school academic and behavioral standards
Lead daily individual and small group tutoring sessions
Communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues