Job Description

Job PurposeThe Classroom Education Assistant (Paraprofessional) supports students with disabilities in achieving their educational, behavioral, social-emotional, and functional goals within a special education classroom. Working under the direction of a licensed Special Education Teacher, the Classroom Education Assistant implements instructional activities, reinforces Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals, provides behavioral support, assists with daily living skills as needed, and helps create a safe, structured, and positive learning environment that promotes student independence and success.Essential FunctionsStudent Instruction & Academic SupportAssist in implementing instructional activities developed by the Special Education Teacher.Provide one-on-one and small group instructional support to reinforce academic concepts.Adapt instructional materials and learning activities to meet individual student needs.Support students in completing assignments while encouraging independence.Reinforce IEP goals through daily classroom activitiesBehavioral SupportImplement individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and positive behavior support strategies.Utilize trauma-informed and relationship-based approaches to support student success.Model appropriate social skills, emotional regulation, and problem-solving techniques.Assist in de-escalating challenging behaviors using approved intervention techniques.Maintain consistent classroom routines and expectations.Classroom EnvironmentHelp maintain a safe, organized, and engaging classroom environment.Prepare instructional materials and classroom resources.Supervise students during classroom transitions, recess, lunch, field trips, and community-based instruction.Assist with classroom organization, inventory, and cleanliness.Support implementation of classroom schedules and routines.Documentation & CommunicationCollect and record data related to student progress toward IEP goals.Document behavioral incidents, interventions, and student participation.Communicate relevant observations to the supervising teacher.Maintain confidentiality of all student records and information in accordance with FERPA, HIPAA (when applicable), and organizational policies.SafetyMaintain constant awareness of student safety.Follow emergency procedures and crisis response protocols.Maintain certification in required crisis prevention and intervention techniques.Report accidents, injuries, or safety concerns immediately.Job ResponsibilitiesMaintain current knowledge of special education best practices, instructional strategies, trauma-informed care, behavioral interventions, and applicable state and federal regulations.Participate in required professional development, trainings, certifications, and continuing education.Build collaborative relationships with teachers, therapists, administrators, families, and community partners to support student success.Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and accountability while representing the organization's mission and values.Contribute positively to departmental and organizational initiatives through teamwork, flexibility, problem-solving, and continuous quality improvement.Maintain all required certifications, licenses, and mandatory training necessary for the position.Perform other duties as assigned to support students, the educational program, and organizational operations.QualificationsEducation:High school diploma or equivalent required.Associate degree, completion of an approved paraprofessional program, or ability to meet state paraprofessional requirements preferred.Experience:Experience working with children or adolescents with disabilities preferred.Experience in educational, behavioral health, residential, or human services settings preferred.Valid driver's license.Knowledge and Skills:Ability to establish positive, respectful relationships with students who have diverse learning, behavioral, emotional, and developmental needs.Understanding of child development and special education practices.Ability to implement teacher-directed instructional and behavioral interventions.Effective verbal and written communication skills.Strong observation and documentation skills.Ability to remain calm and professional during challenging situations.Ability to work collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team.Knowledge of confidentiality requirements and professional boundaries.Basic computer skills for documentation and communication.Ability to organize work and manage multiple priorities.Physical Requirements:Frequently stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and reach.Lift, transfer, or assist students weighing up to 50 pounds independently.Ability to physically intervene using approved crisis intervention techniques when necessary.Ability to supervise students in classrooms, playgrounds, community settings, and during transportation.Visual, auditory, and physical ability to monitor student safety throughout the school day.Working Conditions:Special education classroom and school environment.Frequent interaction with students exhibiting emotional, behavioral, developmental, and physical disabilities.Exposure to loud noise, occasional aggressive behaviors, bodily fluids, and outdoor weather conditions. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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