FY27: Paraeducator Level II, Head Start 4hr/Paraeducator Level II, PreK 2.5hr, Wheaton Woods ES, 6.5hr/10mo, Ad closes 9/30/26

About the role

The Head Start program provides comprehensive services focused on early learning, health, and family well‑being through individualized learning experiences, play, and planned instruction, covering social skills, emotional well‑being, language, literacy, math, and science. At the direction of the principal, this paraeducator performs a variety of tasks that promote school readiness and well‑being for students ages three to five. All new paraeducators are hired at a grade 15 and can advance to grade 16 after completing a six‑month probationary period and the required training hours. Physical demands include frequent bending, walking, and lifting objects/equipment up to 50 pounds. Special requirements may involve outside duty, flexible scheduling, and changes in location or program as needed. The role also entails continuing planned instructional activities during the teacher’s temporary absence from the classroom.

Responsibilities

• Promote school readiness and well‑being for students ages three to five.
• Provide instructional and classroom management supports.
• Perform clerical tasks to assist teachers and other professional staff.
• Support teachers and staff in various classroom or learning environments.
• Continue planned instructional activities during the teacher’s temporary absence.

Qualifications

Education, training, and experience requirements (in order of preference):

• Associate’s degree required; bachelor’s degree preferred. College coursework must include a minimum of nine credit‑hours related to the education field (e.g., behavior management, instructional strategies). One year of experience working with students in structured educational settings preferred. If no related coursework, two to four years of experience working with children and adolescents in a structured setting (daycare, preschool, etc.) is required.
• At least 48 college credits and two years of experience in a structured setting such as a daycare, preschool, adult day program, after‑school program, extended day, or school/non‑school based departments.
• Two years of experience in a structured setting such as a daycare, preschool, adult day program, after‑school program, extended day, or school/non‑school based departments.
• Successful completion of the ParaPro Assessment with a qualifying score of 455 or higher is required.
• Any combination of applicable education, training, and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, abilities, and skills may be considered.
• No certificate or license is required.

Skills

• Knowledge of child development, instructional strategies and practices applicable to the assignment, and instructional goals and policies of Montgomery County Public Schools.
• Ability to assist with implementation of the instructional program and to participate in monitoring and ensuring appropriate student behavior.
• Ability to exhibit patient behavior and to work effectively with children, young adults, and staff members.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and to perform all required tasks.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English.
• Ability to interact with and support students with special needs.
• Knowledge of standard computer hardware and software such as Google Workspace, MS Office, and web‑based instructional tools.
• Knowledge of or the 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 $26.23 and $40.17 per hour, based on years of service.

Benefits

• Benefits information

Schedule

Full‑time, 10 working months, day shift.