FY27: Paraeducator, Level I (Focus), 5hrs/10mos, Galway ES, Ad Closes 8/12/26

At the direction of the principal, this paraeducator performs a variety of tasks that promote student learning and well-being to support students who are diploma bound. The work is focused on facilitating student mastery of grade-level or above curriculum. Students supported at this level are typically in general education classes throughout the school day and may be pulled out for individualized or small-group reinforcement of instruction. This position also performs instructional and classroom management supports, as well as related clerical tasks to support teachers and other professional staff in all types of classrooms or learning environments.

All new paraeducators are hired at a grade 13 and have the opportunity to promote to a grade 14 after successfully completing the six-month probationary period and the required number of training hours.

Responsibilities

• Support student mastery of grade-level or above curriculum in general education classes.
• Provide individualized or small-group reinforcement of instruction.
• Assist with instructional and classroom management tasks.
• Perform clerical tasks to support teachers and professional staff.
• Continue planned instructional activities during the teacher’s temporary absence from the classroom.
• Accommodate flexible scheduling, change of location, and/or program as needed.
• Perform outside duty as required.

Requirements

• Frequent bending, walking, and lifting of objects/equipment up to 50 pounds may be required.
• Must already have uploaded to your profile one of the following:
  • Unofficial university transcript with 48+ credits, or
  • Official transcript (if degree/credits were attained outside the U.S.) evaluated through an agency approved by the Maryland State Department of Education, or
  • Unofficial ParaPro Assessment result with a passing score.
• Official documents will be requested at the time of hire.

Qualifications

These requirements are listed in order of preference:

• Associate’s degree (required); Bachelor’s degree (preferred). College coursework should include a minimum of nine credit-hours related to the education field, such as behavior management or instructional strategies. One year of experience working with students in structured educational or academic situations is preferred. If no related education coursework, then two to four years of experience working with children and adolescents in a structured setting (e.g., daycare, preschool) is required.
• 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).
• 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.
• Any combination of applicable education, training, and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, abilities, and skills to perform effectively in the position.

Skills

• Knowledge of child development, instructional strategies, and MCPS instructional goals and policies.
• Ability to assist with implementation of the instructional program 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.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English.
• Ability to interact with and support students with special needs.
• Knowledge of standard computer hardware and software (e.g., Google Workspace, MS Office, web-based instructional tools).
• Knowledge of and 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 between $24.38 and $36.67 per hour, based on years of service.

Schedule

• Part-time
• 10 working months
• Day shift

Benefits

For information about benefits, please visit this link.