Para-Professional (Part-Time), Mercy School for Special Learning

About the role

Part-time, 29 hours per week, 10 months during the school year (Monday–Friday, 8:15 AM–3:00 PM). Reports to the classroom teacher and principal.

Responsibilities

• Work with students under the guidance, mentorship, and direction of the classroom teacher, providing in-classroom support such as small-group facilitation, one-on-one student support, and implementing specific accommodations.
• Assist and/or support individuals with daily living tasks and activity participation while encouraging the greatest level of independence.
• Prepare classroom instructions and materials daily under the direction of the classroom teacher.
• Perform caretaking tasks including feeding, toileting, changing, and maintaining a healthy, safe environment.
• Learn and employ individual communication strategies, behavioral, and medical protocols.
• Assist the classroom teacher with developing and implementing annual outcomes and IEPs.
• Complete daily documentation and record maintenance per each student’s IEP goals.
• Communicate parental concerns and questions about a student’s progress to the teacher; maintain confidentiality of all student information.
• Work with individual students or small groups on activities assigned by the teacher and reinforce instruction provided by the teacher, adhering to lesson plans.
• Escort students to and from the bus, parent pickup/drop-off, restrooms, special classes, recess, and lunch.
• Follow all policies set forth by The Diocese of Allentown and Mercy School For Special Learning.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the classroom teacher and principal.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent certificate.
• Previous experience working with children with special needs (preferred).
• Understanding of child development and the skills necessary to relate to the students being taught.
• Initiative and willingness to follow a teacher’s direction.
• Ability to handle classroom situations with fairness and patience.
• Good writing skills and the ability to communicate effectively with students and teachers.
• Background clearances required: Child Abuse, PA Criminal Check, Fingerprinting, Mandated Reporter Training, and Protecting God’s Children Training.

Additional Conditions for Employment

Due to the nature and mission of the Catholic Church, all employees are bound to exhibit respect for the teachings and discipline of the Church in regard to matters of faith and morals, including maintaining a lifestyle that is in conformity with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Physical Demands

• Sitting and standing for extended periods of time.
• May frequently move or lift children weighing up to 100 lbs. from wheelchairs to tables or desks.
• Frequent bending at the waist, kneeling, crouching, and pushing or pulling to assist students.
• May reach overhead as well as above shoulders and horizontally.
• Dexterity of hands and fingers to demonstrate activities or run medical and instructional equipment.
• Hearing and speaking to exchange information, make presentations, hear in a noisy environment, and locate the source of a sound.
• Reading a variety of materials and monitoring student activities.
• Possible biological exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases.

Working Conditions

• Works in a variety of settings including classrooms and community settings.
• May be required to assist with special duties and work outside the normal school day to attend school-related events.