Paraeducator - Functional Core Program

About the Role

The Functional Core Program (FCP) supports students with identified disabilities who demonstrate primary learning needs in the functional life skills domain. This paraeducator position works under the direction of a certificated teacher, assisting with instructional and non-instructional activities for special education students. Responsibilities include supporting students with learning, health care needs (e.g., feeding, tube feeding, toileting, catheterization, lifting), and behavior management.

Responsibilities

• Assist students with meeting their IEP goals/objectives and maintain accurate records.
• Prepare classroom and materials as directed; ensure facilities are clean and safe.
• Support students with personal care, including washing, diapering, toileting, and hygiene.
• Perform medical procedures as determined by a registered nurse (e.g., medication administration, catheterization, suctioning, tube feeding).
• Lift and properly position medically fragile students frequently.
• Work with students who have behavior problems, including implementing behavior plans and restraining when necessary.
• Supervise/assist students during lunch, recess, Adaptive PE, music, library, regular education classrooms, or community outings.
• Assist students on and off the bus.
• Develop and maintain positive rapport with students and staff; report parent/staff concerns to supervisors.
• Practice safety and security protocols in daily routines.
• Perform instructional clerical tasks and collaborate with district staff.
• Assist substitute teachers with classroom-specific information.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or Equivalent and one of the following:
  • AA degree, or
  • 48 college-level semester credits or 72 college-level quarter credits, or
  • Pass the state-approved paraeducator assessment test.
• Proficient in basic spelling, math, and grammar skills.
• Experience and/or training in reading instruction, remediation, and assessment.
• Pass a criminal background check and fitness-for-duty examination.
• Possess and maintain a Washington State driver’s license and Type II driver’s license.
• Complete district paraeducator core competency requirements.
• Obtain and maintain Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) certification.
• Complete FWPS district-approved Right Response training (advanced level) and maintain annual recertification.
• Possess and maintain American Heart Association or American Red Cross CPR and first aid training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience and knowledge working with students with special health care needs and developmental disabilities.

Skills

• Knowledge of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), English grammar, spelling, and basic math.
• Familiarity with Positive Behavior Interventions, Right Response, and de-escalation techniques.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong work attendance, punctuality, and adherence to district procedures.
• Enthusiasm, flexibility, and commitment to student success.
• Effective communication with staff, students, parents, and the public in a multicultural community.
• Patience and skill in working with students with emotional, academic, and social needs, including violent behavior.
• Judgment to act independently or escalate issues appropriately.
• Professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical conduct.
• Cultural competence and equity awareness, including the ability to nurture an inclusive environment.
• Willingness to learn and apply modern technology.

Physical Demands

• Constant sitting, standing, walking, bending, and use of hands for repetitive grasping/pushing/pulling.
• Frequent squatting, kneeling, and fine manipulation with hands.
• Occasional climbing stairs/ladder, lifting overhead, crawling, and lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs (with assistance for weights over 50 lbs).
• Constant lifting/carrying up to 10 lbs; frequent lifting/carrying up to 25 lbs.
• Occasional pushing/pulling with a maximum force of 200 lbs.

Work Conditions

• Regular indoor and outdoor work environments.
• Intermittent work near video displays.
• Moderate noise levels; occasional exposure to angry, frustrated, or aggressive individuals.
• Potential exposure to infectious diseases.

Schedule

School-year assignment. Hours and days vary slightly by school.

Benefits

• Prorated benefits based on FTE, including medical, dental, vision, sick and vacation leave, life insurance, and retirement.

Pay

Paraeducator position on the PSE Salary Schedule.