FY27: Combo Paraeducator Level II & Level 1, S. Christa McAuliffe ES, 7hr/10mo, Ad closes 9/1/26

About the Role

This paraeducator position supports the prekindergarten program, which provides comprehensive services focused on early learning, health, and family well-being through individualized learning experiences, play, and planned instruction. Areas of focus include social skills, emotional well-being, language, literacy, math, and science. Under the direction of the principal, the paraeducator performs tasks that promote school readiness and well-being for students ages three to five, including instructional support, classroom management, and related clerical duties.

This position splits time between Pre-K, Head Start, and PEP (Level 2) classes for 4 hours and K-5 HSM grades (Level 1) for 4 hours daily, with the following distribution:

• 6605 (Level II Pre-K): 2 hours
• 6700 (Level II Head Start): 2 hours
• 6551 (Level I): 2 hours
• 6701 (Level I): 1 hour

All new paraeducators are hired at a Grade 15 and may promote to Grade 16 after successfully completing a six-month probationary period and required training hours.

Physical Demands

• Frequent bending, walking, and lifting of objects/equipment up to 50 pounds.
• Outside duty may be required.
• Must accommodate flexible scheduling, changes in location, and/or program as needed.
• Ability to continue planned instructional activities during a teacher’s temporary absence.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the implementation of instructional programs and monitor student behavior.
• Support teachers and professional staff in classroom or learning environments.
• Perform clerical tasks to support instructional activities.
• Interact with and support students with special needs.
• Follow written and verbal instructions to perform required tasks.

Requirements

Education, Training, and Experience

Requirements listed in order of preference:

• Option 1: Associate’s degree (required); Bachelor’s degree (preferred). College coursework must include a minimum of nine credit-hours in education-related fields such as behavior management or instructional strategies. One year of experience working with students in structured educational settings (e.g., schools, academic programs) is preferred. If no related coursework, two to four years of experience working with children/adolescents in structured settings (e.g., daycare, preschool) is required.
• Option 2: At least 48 college credits and two years of experience in a structured setting (e.g., daycare, preschool, after-school program, extended day, or school/non-school-based departments).
• Option 3: Two years of experience in a structured setting (e.g., daycare, preschool, after-school program) and successful completion of the ParaPro Assessment with a qualifying score of 455 or higher.
• Option 4: Any combination of applicable education, training, and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, abilities, and skills to perform effectively.

No certificate or license requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of child development, instructional strategies, and MCPS instructional goals/policies.
• Ability to assist with instructional programs and ensure appropriate student behavior.
• Patience and effectiveness in working with children, young adults, and staff.
• Ability to follow written/verbal instructions and perform tasks as required.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to interact with and support students with special needs.
• Proficiency in standard computer hardware/software (e.g., Google Workspace, MS Office, web-based instructional tools).
• Ability to quickly learn and meet the seven core competencies of the Supporting Services Professional Growth System (SSPGS).

Pay

The wage range for this position is $24.38 to $40.17 per hour, based on years of service.

Benefits

For detailed information about benefits, visit this link.

Schedule

• Type: Part-time
• Working Months: 10 months
• Shift: Day