FY27: Paraeducator Level I, Special Education HSM, 7hrs/10mos, Thurgood Marshall 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 with Individualized Education Programs (IEP). The work is focused on facilitating student mastery of grade-level curriculum or mastery of Alternate Academic Achievement Standards. The students supported are typically in general education classes throughout the school day and may be pulled out for individualized or small group 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 required training hours.

Paraeducators in this class support the following special education services: Twice Exceptional, Learning & Academic Disabilities / Resource Services (HSM, HBS, LAD/RES).

Responsibilities

• Support students in grades K–5 with disabilities in the classroom, small groups, and during lunch & recess.
• Implement a wide range of behavior management and de-escalation strategies to support students academically and behaviorally.
• Collaborate with special education and general education teachers, following their directions and guidance.
• Continue planned instructional activities during the teacher’s temporary absence from the classroom.
• Perform clerical tasks to support teachers and professional staff.

Requirements

Physical Demands

• Frequent bending, walking, and lifting of objects/equipment up to 50 pounds may be required.
• Outside duty may be required.
• Must accommodate flexible scheduling, change of location, and/or program as needed.

Education, Training, and Experience

Requirements listed in order of preference:

• Option 1: Associate’s degree (required); Bachelor’s degree (preferred). College coursework should include a minimum of nine credit-hours related to education, such as behavior management or instructional strategies. One year of experience working with students in structured educational settings (preferred). If no related education coursework, two to four years of experience working with children/adolescents in a structured setting (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).
• Option 3: Two years of experience in a structured setting (e.g., daycare, preschool) 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.

Skills

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

Schedule

• Full-time, 10-month position.
• 7-hour workday: 8:45 AM – 4:15 PM.
• Shift: Day.

Location: Thurgood Marshall Elementary School, Gaithersburg.