Paraeducator - Social Emotional Behavioral

Paraeducator In The Social Emotional Behavioral (SEB) Core Program

The paraeducator in the social emotional behavioral (SEB) core program performs instructional/tutorial assignments, student supervision, clerical tasks, and may perform health-related procedures under the general supervision and direction of a certificated teacher, specialist or principal. The SEB program is for students with identified disabilities that demonstrate primary learning needs in the social emotional skills domain. Paraeducators plan their work with their supervising teacher, and planning time will be set aside when required by either the program's regulations or the paraeducator's supervising teacher and principal.

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.

Provide support to the classroom teacher for the purpose of accomplishing tasks specific to special assignment while working within legal and special program parameters. Work directly under the supervision of a certificated teacher or specialist and follow such directions as given by student(s) program. Instruct individuals or small groups; supervise groups for periods of time. Perform clerical tasks. Perform health-related procedures, as needed, which may include hygiene issues, and administer special programs and tests, only when properly trained. It is important for Paraeducators to be cooperative and flexible as they are often asked to adjust in the ever-changing educational program. Practice effective safety and security within individual work routines, including implementation of behavioral de-escalation techniques and crisis management.

Other responsibilities include transporting students in school district van. Prepare and order meals. 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 include education and experience: High School Diploma or Equivalent And one of the following: AA degree, OR High school diploma (or equivalent) and 48 college-level semester credits or 72 college-level quarter credits, OR High school diploma (or equivalent) and pass the state approved paraeducator assessment test. Additional requirements include being proficient in basic spelling, math and grammar skills, and having experienced and/or training in reading instruction, remediation, and assessment.

Preferred qualifications include experience working with students with disabilities.

Condition of employment includes passing a criminal background check, completing the district's paraeducator core competency requirements, possessing and maintaining a Washington State driver's license, and possessing and maintaining a Type II driver's license. Other requirements include successfully completing the FWPS district-approved Right Response training at the advanced level at the next available time; maintaining current certification at the advanced level through an annual recertification class, and possessing and maintaining American Heart Association or American Red Cross CPR and first aid training. Travel with students as needed and 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, and school board policies is required.

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 is required. 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 when to refer to higher authority, practice ethical and professional standards of conduct including the requirements of confidentiality, communicate effectively with staff, students, parents/guardians, and the public in a multicultural and multiracial community, interact positively with students, parents and staff in a professional manner and demonstrate a commitment for students and their success, continue professional growth.

Required knowledge, skills and abilities related to cultural competence and equity include knowledge/awareness of own cultural identity and how this influences behavior, and desire to learn about the cultural identity of others. Ability to establish and nurture an environment that promotes cultural competence and equitable treatment of staff, students, and patrons of the District. Ability to understand and hold self and others accountable for promoting the Federal Way Public Schools' commitment to "Each Scholar: A Voice. A Dream. A Bright Future." Ability to recognize that each person is a unique individual even as we celebrate their group cultural heritage.

Physical demands include constantly sitting, standing and walking, bending neck and back, using hands for repetitive grasping and pushing/pulling. Frequently squatting, kneeling, and using hands for fine manipulation. Occasionally climbing stairs/ladder, lifting and reaching overhead, crawling, and lifting/carrying. Constantly lifting/carrying up to 10 lbs and frequently lifting/carrying up to 25 lbs. Occasionally lifting/carrying a maximum of 50 lbs. Any lifting over 50 lbs should be done with two people or a mechanical device. Occasionally required to push/pull a maximum force of 200 lbs.

Work conditions include regularly working in indoor and outdoor conditions. This position intermittently works near a video display. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Position occasionally exposed to angry, frustrated, or aggressive individuals, typically in a school classroom environment. Potential exposure to infectious diseases.

Work schedule is a school year assignment. Hours and days will vary slightly from school to school. Position reports to classroom teacher and/or department head and building principal. Position is evaluated by the building principal or designee. Representation is Public School Employees Union (PSE) SEIU Local 1948. Level of compensation is paraeducator position on the PSE Salary Schedule. This position includes the following benefits prorated based on FTE Medical, dental vision, sick and vacation leave, life insurance, retirement.