26/27 Common Grounds Cafe Support, Special Education Instructional Paraprofessional, 0.9375 FTE

SUMMARY

This paraprofessional role requires an individual to possess barista skills and have the ability to teach these skills to students in a hands-on, supportive environment. This role involves coordinating with local businesses to ensure a consistent supply of quality products, delivering exceptional customer service, and mentoring students in both technical and interpersonal aspects of coffee shop operations. Students in this transitional services program have Individualized Education Plans and are enrolled in special education services with Durango School District. This position is an 11 month position and will start on July 21, 2025.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support instructional programs and provide applicable on the job training to students.
• Train and mentor students in technical work aspects and interpersonal skills that are needed in the work environment.
• Affirmatively implement approved modifications and/or accommodations in accordance with the student's IEP.
• Supervise and facilitate students in the program.
• Enforce district policies regarding behaviors and discipline to help correct behavioral problems and assist in meeting student behavioral goals.
• Facilitate crisis intervention and assist students with problem solving techniques and conflict resolution.
• Assist students in performing daily routines with the Common Grounds Program as it relates to technical skills and interpersonal skills.
• Assist students in performing daily routines associated with their personal hygiene.
• Assist with student mobility as directed by the IEP and student need.
• Facilitate and encourage speech and language development. May use alternative language such as sign language or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device.
• Collaborate with Special Service Providers to implement and maintain appropriate physical accommodations and modifications that support the student's access to and participation in the Common Grounds Program.
• Collaborate and communicate with other special and regular educators and administrators with regard to academic and behavioral issues and observations.
• Provide suggestions, feedback and support to building staff, administrators, parents and outside agencies regarding effective strategies for facilitating learning.
• Aid the licensed staff by helping with data collection, updating records and documentation while helping maintain student files and class records.
• Maintain compliance with confidentiality laws including Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
• Ensure proper cleaning and maintenance of the Common Grounds Cafe.
• Maintain inventory for the Common Grounds Cafe.
• Collaborate with the district finance department to manage Common Grounds based funds, including processing transactions, maintaining accurate financial records, reconciling accounts, and ensuring all financial statements comply with district policies and procedures.
• Attend and participate in district and building in-service opportunities and committee work.
• Engage in ongoing professional development.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic Skills Competence (Minimum 2 years of college, e.g. associates degree, or 48 semester hrs of college coursework) OR Pass paraprofessional test (CDE and NCLB qualifications) prior to being hired.

EXPERIENCE

Experience is preferred but may not be necessary for hiring.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, & REGISTRATIONS

• CPR and First Aid training preferred at hire; required one month after hire.
• Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training required within three months of hire.
• COLORADO DRIVER'S LICENSE AND SCHOOL DISTRICT SMALL VEHICLE OPERATOR PERMIT MAY BE REQUIRED.

TECHNICAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, & ABILITIES

• Communicate effectively in written and oral form using positive interpersonal skills.
• Consultation skills.
• Ability to assist in developing and support the behavior intervention plans, classroom management systems, and reinforcement systems.
• Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis.
• Knowledge of developmental, emotional, and behavioral disabilities.
• Experience in data collection and data analysis.
• Ability to develop and provide training related to accessing community resources and behavioral intervention practices in all school settings.
• Non-violent and physical intervention techniques.
• Knowledge of first aid skills.

MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT OPERATING KNOWLEDGE

• Operating knowledge of and experience with personal computers.
• Operating knowledge of and experience with typical office equipment, such as copier, fax machine, E-mail, etc.