26-27 Kennedy Elementary Special Education Paraprofessional

Tier 1 (Title I) Paraprofessional Requirements

• Completed two years of study at an institution of higher education (minimum of 48 hours of college coursework)
• Obtained an associate's degree (or higher)
• Taken and passed the WorkKeys, ParaPro, or Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET)

Tier 2 (Special Education) Paraprofessional Requirements

• Complete the Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Training at a Career Tech Center, state-approved LEA training, or training modules in PEPPER
• Complete and maintain CPR and First Aid certification
• Complete training in Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens
• Complete an additional six (6) hours of professional development in Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens each school year following initial certification

Education and Experience

• An Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Certificate is also required
• An OSBI background check must be completed every five years to remain in compliance

Essential Job Functions

• Aid with instruction and activities for individuals or groups as assigned by the teacher
• Supervise students in instructional settings, off-campus activities, and non-instructional activities (recess, assemblies, drills, lunch periods, etc.)
• Supervise students in the teacher's absence
• Create, adapt instructional materials and teaching aids as directed
• Assist students with assignments and help set up or operate instructional equipment
• Serve as the main point of contact for substitute teachers
• Assist teachers with student behavior management and respond appropriately to student needs
• Alert the teacher to any special needs of students
• Provide assistance with external feedings (e.g., feeding tubes) or personal care (e.g., toileting, catheterization, diaper changes) as needed
• Assist students with boarding or exiting transportation and supervise before or after transport as needed
• Maintain a clean and safe classroom environment (e.g., washing dishes, disinfecting surfaces, defrosting freezers)
• Prepare snacks for students as required
• Ride afternoon bus routes to supervise student behavior when assigned
• Operate photocopiers, laminators, duplicators, and computers
• Aid with obtaining classroom supplies
• Aid with compiling and sending home student work or weekly parent communications

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills to provide support and handle issues effectively
• Ability to comply with all safety policies and procedures to reduce the risk of accidents or injuries
• Commitment to maintaining professional attendance, dress standards, and work habits
• Demonstrated creativity, initiative, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to exercise discretion, sound judgment, and independent decision-making within job responsibilities