Paraprofessional

About the role

Project Paraprofessional (Instruction and Classroom Support Technician I) at the Washington State School for the Blind. This limited‑duration position may convert to a permanent role. Paraprofessionals work seasonally from late August through mid‑June, providing instruction and support to blind and low‑vision students.

Responsibilities

• Provide instruction in core academic areas designed by teachers and specialists.
• Assist special‑education and general‑education teachers in implementing student Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
• Prepare materials, collect, and record data.
• Participate as a contributing member of a collaborative team.
• Assist teachers in implementing behavioral and social‑skills programs.
• Implement district de‑escalation and soft‑restraint techniques under supervision.
• Assist students with physical, mobility, and personal‑care needs.
• Assist secondary students with pre‑vocational and transition activities.
• Manage student equipment and assistive technology.
• Supervise and promote safety of students in multiple settings.
• Administer, monitor, and document medication according to WSSB policy and student health‑care plans.
• Support class or school‑wide projects and events (e.g., Braille Challenge, Track Meet).
• Work on special projects or provide other support as needed.
• Obtain and maintain the Paraprofessional General Certificate as outlined by PESB and OSPI.

Requirements

• At least 18 years old and a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Pass a state‑approved assessment (ETS ParaPro ≥ 455; Pearson Paraprofessional ≥ 220; or Master Teacher Inc. online training ≥ 65%).
• Or hold an associate degree or higher from an accredited institution.
• Or have completed 72 quarter credits (48 semester credits) at the 100‑level or above.
• Or successfully finish a paraeducator apprenticeship registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council.
• Ability and willingness to obtain Braille certification (WA UEB) within one year of hire.
• Ability and willingness to work daytime hours Monday‑Friday (approximately 7 am – 3:45 pm M‑Th, 7 am – 2:30 pm F, or as needed).
• Ability to perform duties with frequent interruptions.
• Willingness to assist children with mobility, toileting, and other personal needs.
• Clear oral and written communication skills.
• Problem‑solving ability.
• Positive attitude, receptiveness to change, and willingness to learn and grow.
• Ability to assist supervisors/instructors on classroom work, field trips, and lectures.
• Ability to prepare materials, set up equipment, and confer with instructors.
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods.
• Pass federal and state background checks.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working with blind and low‑vision individuals.
• Experience in an educational setting, preferably with middle‑ and high‑school youth.
• UEB WA certification for braille competency.
• Experience with daily‑living‑skills instruction for blind and low‑vision students.
• Training or experience supporting children with behavioral‑support needs.

Benefits

• Comprehensive total rewards package including PEBB medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and PERS retirement benefits.
• Project employees receive the same benefits package.
• Union representation by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).
• Access to a 13.2‑acre historic campus with state‑of‑the‑art classrooms, fitness center with saline pool, rock‑climbing wall, track & field, auditorium, braille center, low‑vision clinic, and LIFTT dorm‑style housing.
• Potential dual‑language pay premium of 5% for specialized skills such as braille certification or additional language proficiency.
• Opportunity for conversion to a permanent paraprofessional position.

Pay

Salary: $3,495.00 – $4,653.00 per month (full range posted for informational purposes; actual start salary based on experience, step, and qualifications).

Schedule

Daytime hours, Monday‑Friday. Approx. 7:00 am – 3:45 pm Monday‑Thursday, 7:00 am – 2:30 pm Friday, or as needed to meet agency demands.