Special Education Paraprofessional

Role Description: The Special Education Instructional Paraprofessional is responsible for being the superhero sidekick in our students’ lives. You’ll work closely with students to provide them with the help they need to thrive academically and personally.

About Us: At Archbishop Damiano School, we believe in the power of education to transform lives. We are on a mission to create an inclusive and nurturing environment for students with special needs, aged 3 to 21. Our team of dedicated professionals is the heart and soul of our success, and we're looking for an exceptional Special Education Instructional Paraprofessional to join us in this rewarding journey. We offer a friendly, inclusive environment with colleagues ready to help you feel a part of the community. We're proud to offer professional development opportunities to help you become the best professional you can be. Working at Archbishop Damiano School provides you the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of our extraordinary students.

Responsibilities:

• One-on-one and large and small group support to students with special needs.
• Assist the classroom teacher in the development and implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs), adapting instructional materials and strategies to meet the student’s unique learning style and needs.
• Support students in classroom activities, ensuring they understand and complete assignments.
• Adapt instructional materials and strategies to meet diverse learning styles and needs.
• Assist with various student needs including bathroom use, lunch, playground and gym classes, and transport to and from the bus as needed.
• Implement approved behavior management plans tailored to the individual student.
• Use positive reinforcement and other strategies to manage and encourage positive behavior.
• Monitor and encourage educational achievements, positive student behavior, and independence, providing regular updates to teachers and parents/guardians.
• Work closely with the classroom teacher, therapists, counselors, and other professionals to ensure a coordinated approach to students’ education.
• Participate in meetings to discuss the student’s progress and plan interventions.
• Ensure students’ safety at all times, responding appropriately to emergencies and participating in safety and evacuation drills.
• Monitor students’ health and well-being, reporting any concerns to the appropriate personnel.
• Foster a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment.
• Provide general classroom support including photocopies, bulletin board decorations, and organization as needed.
• Participate in departmental meetings and in-service trainings, promoting teamwork and offering ideas for improved services and operations.
• Uphold the school’s standards for student behavior management, child abuse and neglect, infection control, safety, emergency procedures, attendance, moral, and professional conduct.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 30+ college credits or a substitute teacher certification preferred.
• Passion for working with students with special needs and a commitment to inclusivity.
• Prior experience working with children, preferably with special needs and/or in a learning environment.
• Ability to practice patience, empathy, and remain calm in challenging situations.
• Effective oral, communication, and organization skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability to various classroom needs and challenges.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective work relationships and learn new tasks quickly

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30AM-3:30PM, 48-week contract

Archbishop Damiano School is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.