Paraeducator - 1:1

About the role

The paraeducator in this position must be willing to work 1:1 with a special needs student under the direction of a certified teacher, specialist or principal. Students may be medically fragile and/or have behavior problems which could range from mild to severe. This position supports the teacher and other caregivers with a variety of instructional and physical tasks that will help the student achieve the highest level of independent functioning possible when appropriate.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the care of medically fragile or behaviorally challenged student as directed and/or stated in their IEP
• Assist in the daily instruction of the assigned student and other students
• Assist with the development, implementation and evaluation of IEP goals and objectives
• Assist in the planning of daily/weekly individual and group lessons based on IEP goals and objectives
• Collect, analyze, and maintain data to modify IEP and help determine program effectiveness
• Provide all staff with essential information to meet IEP goals and objectives
• Assist in developing and implementing behavior plans for the student
• Assist with the teaching of appropriate daily living skills, including personal hygiene, communication and classroom routines
• Change diapers and/or toilet train as needed
• Assist student with successful transitions such as music, P.E., library, motor activities, lunch, and recess
• Assist in transferring student, if in a wheelchair, from chair to floor and back, from chair to toilet and back or to special equipment (i.e., Stander, special chair, etc.) using either a hoyer lift or 1–2 person lift
• Practice effective safety and security within individual work routines
• Perform instructional clerical tasks
• Work collaboratively with District staff and promote teamwork with co-workers
• Assist substitute teacher with helpful information pertinent to the classroom

Requirements

• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• One of the following:
  • AA degree, or
  • High school diploma (or equivalent) and 48 college-level semester credits or 72 college-level quarter credits, or
  • High school diploma (or equivalent) and pass the state approved paraeducator assessment test
• Proficient in basic spelling, math and grammar skills
• Experienced and/or training in reading instruction, remediation, and assessment
• Pass a criminal background check
• Washington State driver’s license
• Possess and maintain Type II driver’s license
• Complete the district’s paraeducator core competency requirements
• Possess and maintain Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) certificated course
• Successfully complete the FWPS district-approved Right Response training at the advanced level at the next available time; maintain current certification at the advanced level through an annual recertification class
• Work scheduled hours on a consistent basis

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
• English grammar and spelling
• Basic math
• Positive behavior interventions
• Right Response and de-escalation techniques
• School Board Policies
• Basic knowledge of modern technology and willingness and ability to increase knowledge to proficiency
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with others fostering a team approach
• Ability to maintain a good work attendance record, be punctual, and follow District procedures for reporting all absences
• Demonstrate enthusiasm, flexibility and a commitment to students
• Practice effective safety and security within individual work routines
• Develop and maintain positive relations with staff and service providers
• Follow written and verbal directions with minimal supervision
• Speak, read and follow written communications in English
• Demonstrate the desire, skill and patience to work with students with special emotional, academic and social needs, which may include violent behavior
• Demonstrate a caring attitude and establish an environment that encourages appropriate behavior and successful learning
• Exercise judgment as to when to act independently and when to refer to higher authority
• Practice ethical and professional standards of conduct including the requirements of confidentiality
• Communicate effectively with staff, students, parents/guardians, and the public in a multicultural and multiracial community
• Interact positively with students, parents and staff in a professional manner and demonstrate a commitment for students and their success
• Continue professional growth
• Ability to understand and hold self and others accountable for promoting the Federal Way Public Schools’ commitment to “Each Scholar: A Voice. A Dream. A Bright Future.”
• Ability to recognize that each person is a unique individual even as we celebrate their group cultural heritage

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee will constantly sit, stand and walk; bend neck and back; use hands for repetitive grasping and pushing/pulling. The employee is frequently required to squat, kneel, and use hands for fine manipulation. The employee will occasionally be required to climb stairs/ladder, lift and reach overhead, crawl, and lift/carry. The employee must constantly lift/carry up to 10 lbs and must frequently lift/carry up to 25 lbs. The employee will occasionally lift/carry a maximum of 50 lbs. Any lifting over 50 lbs should be done with two people or a mechanical device. The employee is occasionally required to push/pull a maximum force of 200 lbs.

Work Conditions

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in indoor and outdoor conditions. This position intermittently works near a video display. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Position occasionally exposed to angry, frustrated, or aggressive individuals, typically in a school classroom environment. Potential exposure to infectious diseases.