Instructional Paraeducator -Animas Valley Elementary, .63 FTE

Durango School District is seeking an Instructional Paraeducator at Animas Valley Elementary School for the 2026/2027 school year. This is a 9-month position beginning August 17, 2026, with a schedule of Monday through Friday, 0.63 FTE (25.2 hours per week). Full benefits are included. Employee workforce housing is available for the 2026/2027 school year. A one-time $1,134 bonus is offered for newly hired staff, pro-rated for late starts.

About the Role

Assist teachers with instructing students, reinforcing materials and skills, implementing curriculum, maintaining technology, and/or managing student behavior. Supervise students throughout the day, including during activities such as cafeteria, playground, hallway transitions, field trips, and bus arrivals/departures.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers with implementing lesson plans, reinforcing skills, and maintaining the classroom.
• Administer, score, and/or record assessment information and progress monitoring for students.
• Prepare instructional materials, perform clerical duties, and maintain files, records, and progress reports.
• Set up the learning environment with necessary supplies and materials.
• Tutor students and lead small-group or one-on-one activities.
• Supervise and monitor student behavior during daily activities (e.g., cafeteria, playground, hallways, field trips).
• Assist with office duties such as answering phones, maintaining databases, directing visitors, preparing reports, and processing mail.
• Attend building meetings, in-services, school functions, and trainings.
• Engage in ongoing professional development.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic Skills Competence: Minimum of 2 years of college (e.g., associate degree or 48 semester hours of college coursework) or pass the paraprofessional test (CDE and ESSA qualifications) prior to hire.
• Experience in a school setting and/or educational training preferred but not required.
• CPR and First Aid certifications may be required within 3 months of hire.
• Criminal background check required for hire.

Skills

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and contribute to a positive work climate.
• Commitment to customer service and student safety.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, basic language, math, and writing skills.
• Desire to work with children, including those with special needs.
• Basic knowledge of office equipment and microcomputers preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively in written and oral form using proper grammar and punctuation.
• Multilingual oral and written communication skills preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a team setting.
• Ability to follow Board of Education policies, Superintendent policies, and building/department procedures.
• Willingness to grow professionally through ongoing development.
• Ability to assist in supporting classroom management and reinforcement systems.
• Ability to use effective interventions for at-risk learners.
• Operating knowledge of typical office equipment (e.g., copier, fax machine, email).

Benefits

• Full benefits package.
• Employee workforce housing available for the 2026/2027 school year.
• One-time $1,134 bonus for newly hired staff (pro-rated for late starts).

Schedule

• Monday through Friday, 0.63 FTE (25.2 hours per week).
• 9-month position (school year).