FY27: Paraeducator Level II, Special Education Itinerant, Forest Knolls ES, 6 Hrs/10 Mons, Ad Closes 819/26

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 paraeducator may participate with students in learning activities off school grounds and assist with academic, behavioral, social, emotional, and physical support. Work focuses on facilitating student mastery of grade-level curriculum or Alternate Academic Achievement Standards and managing behaviors that impact access to the curriculum. Students supported may participate in general education classes, specialized instructional settings, or receive individualized or small group reinforcement.

This position also performs instructional and classroom management supports, as well as related clerical tasks to support teachers and professional staff. All new paraeducators are hired at grade 15 and may promote to grade 16 after completing a six-month probationary period and required training hours.

Responsibilities

• Support students with Individualized Education Programs (IEP) in academic, behavioral, social, emotional, and physical needs.
• Facilitate student mastery of grade-level curriculum or Alternate Academic Achievement Standards.
• Manage behaviors that impact a student’s ability to access the curriculum.
• Assist in general education classes and/or specialized instructional settings.
• Provide individualized or small group reinforcement of instruction.
• Perform instructional and classroom management supports.
• Complete 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, and/or program as needed.

Physical Demands

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

Requirements

• Associate’s degree (required); Bachelor’s degree (preferred). College coursework should 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 or academic situations (preferred).
• If no related education coursework, two to four years of experience working with children and adolescents in a structured setting (e.g., daycare, preschool) is required.
• Alternatively, at least 48 college credits and two years of experience in a structured setting (e.g., daycare, preschool, after-school program).
• 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 necessary knowledge, abilities, and skills may be considered.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English.
• Must accommodate flexible scheduling and potential changes in location or program.

Skills

• 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.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to interact with and support students with special needs.
• Proficiency in standard computer hardware and 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).

Pay

The wage range for this position is between $26.23 and $40.17 per hour, based on years of service.

Schedule

• Part-time.
• 10 working months per year.
• Day shift.

Benefits information.