FY27: Paraeducator PreK Level II, Whetstone ES, 7hrs/10mos, Ad closes 8/17/26

About the Role

The prekindergarten program provides comprehensive services focused on early learning, health, and family well-being through individualized learning experiences, play, and planned instruction. This includes areas such as 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. Responsibilities include instructional and classroom management support, as well as related clerical tasks to assist teachers and other professional staff in all types of classrooms or learning environments.

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

Responsibilities

• Support the implementation of instructional programs and participate in monitoring student behavior.
• Continue planned instructional activities during the teacher’s temporary absence from the classroom.
• Assist with classroom management and clerical tasks to support teachers and professional staff.
• Accommodate flexible scheduling, change of location, and/or program as needed.

Requirements

Physical Demands

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

Education, Training, and Experience

Requirements listed in order of preference:

• Option 1: Associate’s degree (required); Bachelor’s degree preferred. College coursework must 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 settings preferred. If no related coursework, two to four years of experience working with children/adolescents in structured settings (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, extended day, or school/non-school-based departments).
• Option 3: 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.
• Option 4: Any combination of applicable education, training, and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, abilities, and skills.

Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of child development, instructional strategies, and MCPS instructional goals and policies.
• Ability to assist with 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.
• Proficiency with standard computer hardware/software (e.g., Google Workspace, MS Office, web-based instructional tools).
• 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 $26.23 to $40.17 per hour, based on years of service.

Schedule

• Full-time, 10-month position.
• Day shift.

Benefits

For information about benefits, visit: Benefits Overview.