26-27 PreK Paraprofessional

Position Summary

Paraprofessionals in the Somerville Public Schools assist teachers in all aspects of the functioning of the classroom, including instruction and maintaining a safe classroom environment. Paraprofessionals contribute to a positive classroom and school environment and collaborate with colleagues to support students in a variety of ways.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Aid in instruction as directed by the teacher
• Develop an understanding of the curriculum
• Support the overall management of the classroom and student behavior
• Provide small group and/or individual instruction under the direction of the classroom teacher
• Assist the classroom teacher with the development of curriculum materials
• Help to create and maintain a safe learning environment
• Support students’ emotional regulation
• Collect academic and/or behavioral data as directed
• Develop and maintain positive, respectful, and appropriate relationships with students
• Engage positively, respectfully, and professionally with colleagues
• Collaborate with colleagues to support student learning and success
• Positively contribute to a classroom and school community that affirms the identities of all students and staff
• Use practices and approaches that value student diversity
• Protect student confidentiality
• Engage in meaningful professional development opportunities and apply the learning from those experiences
• Understand and utilize appropriate technology
• Complete required paperwork and duties as assigned

Qualifications, Knowledge, Abilities, & Skills

• Appropriate Department of Elementary and Secondary Educator's license in the field or subject for this position
• DESE SEI endorsement required
• Bilingual Educator preferred

Physical Requirements

• Standing and walking for prolonged periods
• Frequent bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, which may include sitting on the floor to effectively engage with students
• The use of hands and fingers to operate computers, instructional technology, and classroom materials
• Sufficient visual, auditory, and verbal ability to supervise students, deliver instruction, and evaluate student performance
• Ability to lift, carry, and move instructional materials and supplies, weighing up to 15 pounds
• The position further requires the ability to respond appropriately and promptly to emergency situations to ensure the health and safety of students

Terms of Employment

• Position Type: Full Time
• Schedule: 183 days - Scheduled School Year
• FLSA Classification: Non Exempt
• Salary: Commensurate with education and experience, in accordance with the Somerville Educator's Union collective bargaining agreement

Pre-Employment Requirements

• MA Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Clearance
• Fingerprints