The posting
Position Title: Special Education Paraprofessional Reports To: Principal Work Calendar: 10-Month (185 Day Position) FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Position Summary
The Special Education Paraprofessional assists certified special education teachers in providing instructional, behavioral, social, and personal support services to students with disabilities. The paraprofessional works with individual students and small groups to reinforce learning objectives, support the implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and help ensure a safe, positive, and inclusive learning environment that promotes student growth and independence.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Instructional Support
- Assist the special education teacher in implementing instructional activities aligned with students' IEP goals and objectives.
- Work with individual students and small groups to reinforce academic skills and concepts.
- Provide instructional support in general education and special education settings as assigned.
- Assist students with completing classroom assignments, projects, and assessments.
- Utilize instructional strategies and accommodations as directed by certified staff.
- Support students in developing organizational, communication, and self-advocacy skills.
Behavioral and Social-Emotional Support
- Assist in implementing behavior intervention plans and positive behavior supports.
- Monitor and document student behavior and progress as directed.
- Encourage appropriate social interactions and peer relationships.
- Support students in developing self-regulation, conflict-resolution, and independent living skills.
- Assist with crisis prevention and intervention strategies as trained and directed.
Student Support
- Assist students with personal care needs, including toileting, hygiene, feeding, dressing, and mobility when required by a student's IEP or medical plan.
- Assist with transferring, positioning, and monitoring students using appropriate safety procedures and equipment.
- Support implementation of health-related services as permitted by training, district policy, and state regulations.
- Maintain student dignity, privacy, and confidentiality at all times.
Classroom and Program Support
- Assist with maintaining a safe, organized, and supportive classroom environment.
- Prepare instructional materials, visual supports, adaptive equipment, and classroom resources.
- Supervise students during transitions, lunch, recess, field trips, vocational activities, and community-based instruction as assigned.
- Assist with data collection and recordkeeping related to student progress and goals.
- Perform clerical tasks that support the instructional program.
Collaboration and Communication
- Work cooperatively with teachers, administrators, related service providers, and other staff members.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding student records and information in accordance with applicable laws and district policies.
- Communicate relevant information concerning student performance, behavior, and needs to supervising staff.
- Participate in training, staff meetings, and professional development activities as required.
Compliance and Safety
- Follow all district policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
- Assist in emergency drills and emergency response procedures.
- Report accidents, injuries, safety concerns, and suspected abuse or neglect in accordance with district procedures and legal requirements.
- Comply with all federal, state, and local regulations governing special education services.
- Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.
Qualifications
Education
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Associate degree preferred.
Certification/Licensure
- Paraprofessional license or have passed the paraprofessional assessment.
Experience
- Experience working with children in an educational or youth-serving setting preferred.
- Experience working with students with disabilities preferred.
- Training in behavior management, de-escalation techniques, or crisis intervention preferred.
- Experience supporting students with autism, emotional and behavioral disabilities, intellectual disabilities, or multiple disabilities preferred.
Required Clearances
- Must successfully complete and maintain all criminal history background checks, fingerprint-based record checks, and employment eligibility screenings requirements established by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) and district policy.
- Must meet all requirements for employment in a Georgia public school system.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to work effectively with students with diverse disabilities and learning needs.
- Ability to establish positive and professional relationships with students, staff, and families.
- Knowledge of basic instructional strategies and behavior management techniques.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Basic computer and educational technology skills.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and work as a member of a collaborative team.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and reach throughout the workday.
- Ability to lift, move, position, or assist students and equipment as required, with reasonable accommodation when appropriate.
- Ability to assist students with mobility needs and perform physical support duties safely.
- Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying conditions.
Working Conditions
- Work is performed primarily in classrooms and other school environments.
- Frequent interaction with students who may require academic, behavioral, medical, or physical support.
- May be exposed to challenging student behaviors and situations requiring physical activity and close supervision.
- May accompany students on field trips, vocational training activities, and community-based instructional programs.
Evaluation
Performance will be evaluated in accordance with Board of Education policies, district procedures, and the established employee evaluation system.
The statements contained herein describe the general scope of responsibilities and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications.
The Oglethorpe County School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, marital status, religion, handicap, or disability in its educational programs, activities, or employment practices.
