26-27 Truman 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)

Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Certificate

Required: Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Certificate or willingness to complete the Tier 2 (Special Education) Paraprofessional Requirements and obtain the certificate within 120 days of employment.

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

• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• College hours are preferred and may assist in meeting Tier 1 Paraprofessional Requirements.

Training/Experience Required

• Must meet Tier 1 Paraprofessional Requirements.
• Previous work or volunteer experience with children, teenagers, or clerical duties is preferred.

Essential Job Functions

• Assist with instruction and activities for individuals or groups as assigned by the teacher.
• 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 strict confidentiality at all times.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

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.