Educational Assistant (2026-2027 School Year)

About the role

Special Education Educational Assistants (Paraprofessionals) at Prodeo Academy support students with disabilities academically, behaviorally, and functionally under the direction of licensed staff, contributing to a safe, inclusive, and welcoming school environment.

Responsibilities

• Support instruction for individual students or small groups under the direction of a licensed teacher or special education staff member.
• Implement instructional activities, accommodations, and modifications as outlined in written lesson plans, schedules, IEPs, and behavior plans.
• Support students across a variety of instructional settings, which may include general education classrooms, resource rooms, and center-based or specialized classroom settings.
• Reinforce learning objectives and support student engagement during lessons and activities.
• Accompany students during classroom-based and schoolwide assessments.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling student records and information.
• Share relevant data and observations with supervising staff in a timely manner.
• Support students’ social, emotional, and behavioral needs using schoolwide behavior systems and approved intervention strategies.
• Follow written behavior plans, safety plans, and crisis response protocols with fidelity.
• Help maintain a safe, predictable, and respectful learning environment.
• Ensure safety and appropriate supervision of students at all times.
• Assist with crisis intervention or student safety procedures when trained and required.
• Provide assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) as required, which may include toileting, feeding, hygiene, mobility, and other personal care tasks.
• Demonstrate willingness to obtain and maintain Personal Care Assistant (PCA) certification, as required by student needs and program expectations.
• Support students with medical needs in accordance with written care plans and training provided by the school or licensed medical professionals (e.g., seizure response, feeding protocols, mobility equipment).
• Communicate clearly, professionally, and respectfully with supervising staff regarding student progress, concerns, and needs.
• Build positive, trusting relationships with students and families.
• Complete assigned responsibilities independently and reliably, seeking guidance when clarification is needed.
• Participate in required professional development, training, and coaching, including a 3-week training in August.
• Complete required certifications and training, including PCA certification, health and safety training, and behavior support training, as assigned.
• Check and respond to team and family communication within 24–48 business hours.

Qualifications

• Must meet Minnesota Highly Qualified Paraprofessional requirements, including one of the following:
• Associate degree or higher,
• Completion of 60+ college credits,
• Passing score on a state-approved paraprofessional assessment.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience working with children, particularly students with disabilities.
• PCA certification.
• Comfort supporting students with personal care and medical needs, with training.
• Demonstrated ability to follow written plans, schedules, and protocols with accuracy.
• Strong attention to detail and reliability.
• Trustworthiness, responsibility, and sound judgment.
• Ability to work independently and complete assigned duties with minimal supervision.
• Ability to follow written plans, schedules, and procedures with fidelity.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data collection and documentation.
• Commitment to Prodeo Academy’s mission and values.
• Ability to collaborate effectively as part of a team.
• Cultural responsiveness and respect for diverse backgrounds.
• Professionalism, reliability, and willingness to learn.

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare options (Medical, Dental, and Vision).
• Roth IRA/PERA retirement plan.
• Tuition assistance and partnerships with educator preparation programs.

Pay

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Schedule

The role may require movement between classrooms, buildings, or school sites.