Instructional Paraprofessional (MLL)

About the Role

Paraprofessionals assist teachers in providing an innovative, high-quality education program designed to meet the needs of all children in the Springfield Public Schools. They work with school staff to create an educational environment that meets the needs of all students by providing instructional assistance, classroom support, and implementing effective classroom strategies.

Examples of support services and educational settings served by paraprofessionals may include: life skills, developmental classrooms, social, emotional, & behavioral support (SEBS), LINKS (Autism) program, visual or mobility orientation, language learning delays, and medical care.

Responsibilities

• Supports direct instruction to children individually, in small groups, and in classroom settings
• Provides assistance with classroom activities
• Prepares instructional materials
• Manages individual and classroom behavior
• Supervises students on field trip activities
• Performs other support services and related duties as requested by Building Principal

Additional duties may need to be performed as part of the job requirement in favor of student success. Be sure to review the Collective Bargaining Agreement to clearly understand the conditions of employment as a paraprofessional.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED, and
• Associate of Arts or Science Degree or higher, or
• 60 undergraduate college credits, or
• Meeting or exceeding the State mandated score on the Paraprofessional Assessment or Work Keys Assessment

A passing score on the Work Keys Exams in the following areas:

• Reading: 5
• Math: 4
• Writing: 3

Preferred Qualifications:

• BA Degree with Educator Licensure
• Experience working with special education students in education settings

Benefits

Paraprofessionals in the Springfield Public Schools have a substantial benefit package including:

• Competitive wages
• Paid sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Earning incentive days
• Professional Development opportunities, including a robust Para to Teacher Pipeline program

About Our District

Springfield Public Schools is a cultural gem in Western Massachusetts committed to providing a learning environment that opens the doors of infinite possibilities to our amazing students and staff. We strive to equip each of our approximately 24,000 students with learning experiences that enhance their knowledge and critical thinking skills. We are the 3rd largest district in Massachusetts.

Our district has over 44 languages spoken and over 60 countries represented by both students and staff. We foster a positive and professional environment in our schools and worksites where people feel valued, respected, supported, seen, and heard. Our students and staff share their ideas and perspectives, learning from and appreciating each other. We are a district committed to equity and excellence.

We offer numerous cutting-edge professional development opportunities for all staff, shaped by data to ensure relevance and actionability. We support our teaching staff with mentors such as instructional leadership specialists and effective educator coaches to work with them throughout the year in lesson planning, data analysis, and management. Our district offers career advancement opportunities and is invested in “Grow our Own” and educational pipeline programs to help staff achieve a college degree or certification.

For specific questions about the position or assistance with matching your skills, contact Carmen Molina-Figueroa at molina-figueroac@springfieldpublicschools.com.