Paraprofessional

Reports to: Building Principal
Site: Jefferson Elementary

Qualifications

• Associate Degree or 60 hours college credit or pass the Oklahoma General Education Test
• Previous work or volunteer experience with children, teenagers, and/or clerical experience preferred

About the Role

Performs entry-level to semi-skilled duties under general supervision to assist the teacher in providing an environment to improve and develop students' social, communication, and intellectual skills. Follows standardized operating policies and procedures, occasionally interpreting them as needed.

Skills and Abilities

• Communication Skills: Basic oral, written, or business communication to exchange information, give/receive simple instructions, and respond to inquiries, including filling out forms.
• Data Recording/Record Keeping: Performs non-complex data recording, logging, filing, or posting single-entry items manually or by computer.
• Mathematical Skills: Performs routine computations using addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and percentages.
• Reading and Interpretation: Reads and interprets routine written or printed materials such as charts, diagrams, maps, or instruction manuals.
• Business Machines: Uses easily learned business machines (e.g., photocopiers, laminators, duplicators, computers) with non-complex manuals or verbal instructions. May occasionally use more advanced machines without required proficiency.
• Office Filing and Retrieving: Responsible for filing and retrieving documents from an existing system.
• Contact with Others: Public contact with district members, including interpersonal interaction with staff and parents outside the classroom.

Responsibilities

• Assists with instruction and activities for individuals or groups as assigned by the teacher.
• Supervises students in instructional settings, off-campus activities, and during non-instructional times such as recess, assemblies, emergency drills, and lunch periods. May supervise the class in the teacher's absence.
• Prepares, creates, and/or adapts instructional materials as directed by the teacher, including bulletin boards and teaching aids.
• Assists students with assignments and sets up equipment for instructional purposes.
• Serves as the chief source of information and assistance for substitute teachers.
• Assists with student behavior management strategies, restrains out-of-control students when necessary, and alerts the teacher to special student needs.
• Grades student work, records grades, takes attendance, and completes necessary paperwork and records.
• May assist students with personal care needs and minor first aid.
• Performs housekeeping duties to ensure the classroom is neat and clean. May assist students in boarding and getting off the bus.
• Operates photocopiers, laminators, duplicators, and computers. Assists the teacher in obtaining supplies for activities.
• Assists with compiling student work to send home weekly and communicates with parents as required.
• May assist with playground, hallway, or cafeteria duties as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Other Performance Measures

• Requires good customer service and people skills to resolve problems and provide information.
• Must follow safety guidelines and policies, including the District Exposure Control Plan for Bloodborne Pathogens.
• Must adhere to school dress standards, attendance policies, and other work-habit expectations.
• Creativity, initiative, and effective problem-solving are important for success in this role.
• Must maintain a positive attitude and be cooperative with staff, the public, and students.

Physical and Mental Requirements

• Frequent bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, reaching above the shoulder, and pushing/pulling.
• Occasional lifting up to 45 pounds to assist with chairs, equipment, and supplies.
• Dexterity to operate keyboards, computers, copy machines, and other office/instructional equipment.
• Ability to supervise students in the classroom and outside.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Mobility to navigate the classroom, media center, cafeteria, campus, and other areas.
• Ability to assist students with normal activities.

Length of the work year and hours of employment follow the district's 180-day contract.