FY27: Paraeducator Combo, Special Education 6.5hrs + 0.5hr LHA, Takoma Park ES, 7hr/10, Ad Closes 9/2/26

About the Role

At the direction of the principal, this paraeducator performs a variety of tasks that promote student learning and well-being to support students with Individualized Education Programs (IEP). The paraeducator may assist students with academic, behavioral, social, emotional, and physical support, facilitating mastery of grade-level curriculum or Alternate Academic Achievement Standards. Students supported may participate in general education classes, specialized instructional settings, or small group/individualized instruction. The role includes instructional and classroom management support, clerical tasks, and may require participation in off-site learning activities.

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

Responsibilities

• Support students with IEP goals in academic, behavioral, social, emotional, and physical domains.
• Facilitate student mastery of grade-level curriculum or Alternate Academic Achievement Standards.
• Manage behaviors that impact students' ability to access curriculum.
• Assist in general education classes and/or specialized instructional settings.
• Provide individualized or small group reinforcement of instruction.
• Perform instructional and classroom management support tasks.
• Handle related clerical tasks to support teachers and professional staff.
• Continue planned instructional activities during a teacher's temporary absence.
• Accommodate flexible scheduling, change of location, or program as needed.
• Complete specific training required for the role.

Physical Demands

• Frequent bending, walking, and lifting of objects/equipment up to 50 pounds.
• Outside duty may be required.

Requirements

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

Qualifications

One of the following combinations of education, training, and experience:

• Preferred: Associate’s degree (Bachelor’s preferred) with at least nine credit-hours in education-related fields (e.g., behavior management, instructional strategies). One year of experience working with students in structured educational settings.
• If no related coursework: Two to four years of experience working with children/adolescents in structured settings (e.g., daycare, preschool).
• At least 48 college credits and two years of experience in a structured setting (e.g., daycare, preschool, after-school programs).
• Two years of experience in a structured setting and successful completion of the ParaPro Assessment with a qualifying score of 455 or higher.
• Any combination of applicable education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, abilities, and skills.

Pay

The wage range for this position is $24.38 to $36.67 per hour, based on years of service.

Schedule

• Full-time, 10-month position (working months).
• Shift: Day.
• Flexible scheduling and change of location/program may be required.

Benefits

For information about benefits, visit: Benefits Overview.