Paraprofessional (Behavior & Instructional Support)

Paraprofessional (Behavior & Instructional Support) at Carter G. Woodson School (Winston‑Salem, NC). Reports to Academic Lead. 10‑month position.

About the role

The Paraprofessional (Behavior & Instructional Support) supports classroom instruction and student development by integrating instructional assistance with behavior support strategies. This role combines responsibilities of a Teacher Assistant and Behavior Technician, utilizing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles and classroom management techniques to promote academic success, positive behavior, and a structured learning environment for K–12 scholars. This position may also serve as a substitute in classrooms as needed.

Responsibilities

• Instructional Support (Teacher Assistant Functions)
  • Assist certified teachers in delivering instruction in whole group, small group, and individualized settings
  • Reinforce lesson objectives and support student comprehension and engagement
  • Provide accommodation and modifications for students with IEPs and/or 504 plans
  • Assist with classroom materials, activities, and learning centers
  • Support student participation in assessments and classroom assignments
• Behavior Support (Behavior Technician Functions)
  • Implement behavior intervention strategies and plans as directed
  • Utilize ABA‑based techniques such as: positive reinforcement, prompting and fading, behavior modeling and redirection, data collection and tracking
  • Support students in developing self‑regulation, social‑emotional skills, and appropriate classroom behaviors
  • Assist with de‑escalation and crisis response using approved training and protocols
  • Document and communicate behavioral observations and incidents to appropriate staff
• Classroom Management & Student Supervision
  • Assist in maintaining a safe, structured, and positive classroom environment
  • Monitor students during transitions, hallways, lunch, recess, arrival, and dismissal
  • Support adherence to school‑wide expectations, policies, and procedures
  • Promote student accountability, respect, and engagement
• Substitute Support (As Needed)
  • Serve as a substitute teacher or paraprofessional in classrooms when coverage is required
  • Follow lesson plans provided by the teacher or administration
  • Maintain classroom order, instruction continuity, and student safety during absences
  • Support multiple classrooms and grade levels as assigned
• Collaboration & Communication
  • Work closely with teachers, administrators, counselors, and support staff
  • Participate in team meetings, MTSS/RTI meetings, and behavior planning sessions as requested
  • Communicate student progress, concerns, and needs to appropriate personnel
  • Maintain confidentiality in accordance with FERPA and school policies

Requirements

• Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Experience working with children or adolescents in an educational setting preferred
  • Ability to follow directions, work collaboratively, and maintain professionalism
• Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate degree or college coursework in education, psychology, or related field
  • Experience in classroom support, special education, or behavioral intervention
  • Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies
  • Experience working in K–12 environments
  • Bilingual ability is preferred
• Certifications (Preferred or Required as Applicable)
  • Behavior Technician (BT) training or willingness to obtain
  • CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) or equivalent training
  • CPR/First Aid certification

Skills

• Strong classroom management and student engagement skills
• Ability to implement behavior strategies consistently
• Ability to remain calm and respond effectively in high‑pressure situations
• Strong communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to collect, document, and interpret basic student behavior data
• Flexibility to support multiple roles and grade levels

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the school day
• Ability to supervise and assist students across multiple environments
• Ability to respond quickly to student