Paraeducator - Early Childhood Education Preschool

POSITION SUMMARY: This position is under the supervision of the certified preschool teacher/specialist.  The employee will assist with a variety of instructional tasks.  The major aspect of the paraeducator’s duties will include assisting with students ranging from one-on-one to small group activities.
 
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. Some incumbents may not perform all the duties listed while in other cases related duties may also be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Under the direction of the certified teacher, the paraeducator will assist students with meeting their IEP goals/objectives and keep accurate records.
• Assist the teacher in preparing the classroom and materials.
• Assist in keeping the facilities clean and safe.
• Assist students with washing, diapering, and toileting.
• Perform medical procedures as determined by a registered nurse, such as but not limited to:  tube feeding and administration of medication only when properly trained.
• Frequent lifting and properly positioning of medically fragile students.
• Work with students that have behavior problems that may require restraining.  Implement and follow behavior plans.
• Supervise/assist students at recess, Adaptive P.E., music and library.  Assist students on and off the bus.
• Develop and maintain a positive rapport with students and staff.
• Report and direct any questions or concerns made by parents or support staff to your immediate supervisor.
• Practice effective safety and security within individual work routines.

 
OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform instructional clerical tasks.
• Work collaboratively with District staff and promote teamwork with co-workers.
• Assist substitute teacher with helpful information pertinent to the classroom.

 
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Per Federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Regulations, new hires must have:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent,
• And one of the following:
  • AA degree,  OR
  • 48 College-Level Semester Credits,  OR
  • 72 College-Level Quarter Credits,  OR
  • Pass the state approved ParaPro Assessment

 
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Proficient in basic spelling, math and grammar skills
Experienced and/or training in reading instruction, remediation, and assessment
 
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience working with student in early learning
 
CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT:
Pass a criminal background check
Complete the district's paraeducator core competency requirements
Possess and maintain Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) certificated course
Successfully complete the FWPS district-approved Right Response training at the advanced level at the next available time; maintain current certification at the advanced level through an annual recertification class
Possess and maintain American Heart Association or American Red Cross CPR and first aid training
Work scheduled hours on a consistent basis
 
KNOWLEDGE OF:
Individual education plans (IEPs)
English grammar and spelling
Basic math
Positive behavior interventions
Right Response and de-escalation techniques
School Board Policies
 
ABILITY TO:
Demonstrate basic knowledge of modern technology and willingness and ability to increase knowledge to proficiency
Work independently and work collaboratively with others fostering a team approach whenever appropriate.
Maintain a good work attendance record, be punctual, and follow District procedures for reporting all absences.
Demonstrate enthusiasm, flexibility and a commitment to students.
Practice effective safety and security within individual work routines.
Develop and maintain positive relations with staff and service providers
Follow written and verbal directions with minimal supervision
Speak, read and follow written communications in English
Perform basic spelling, math and grammar skills
Demonstrate the desire, skill and patience to work with students with special emotional, academic and social needs, which may include violent behavior
Demonstrate a caring attitude and establish an environment that encourages appropriate behavior and successful learning
Exercise judgment as to when to act independently and wh