Paraprofessional (Emotional Support)

Qualifications

• Must meet educational requirements for "highly qualified paraprofessional," as defined by the federal laws, No Child Left Behind, and IDEA.
• Must meet educational requirements of Chapter 14, PA Code 22.
• Must meet basic reading, writing, and math competencies.
• Valid Act 34, 114, and Act 151 clearances.
• Valid tuberculosis test and physical examination with ADA reasonable accommodations stipulated, as appropriate.
• Continue to meet the required annual obligations of Chapter 14, PA Code 22: 20 hours of approved staff development activities related to their assignment.
• U. S. citizen or holder of a valid work visa.
• Such additional or alternatives to the above qualifications as the board or superintendent may determine appropriate and acceptable.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Aid the principal and other professionals in maintaining a safe and orderly school environment.
• Aid the special education and regular education teachers in the delivery of appropriate instructional and tutorial strategies as per the individualized educational plan (IEP).
• Under the direction of the teacher, provide instructional support for the purpose of supporting/reinforcing lessons (e.g., administering tests, tutoring or reinforcing instruction).
• Under the direction of the teacher, collect observational and academic data for the purpose of progress monitoring.
• Maintain students' files/records for the purpose of documenting activities and/or providing reliable information.
• Under the direction of the teacher, follow and implement positive behavior support plans.
• Handle students' personal needs (e.g., feeding, toileting, diapering, etc.) for the purpose of providing care to students who may or may not have medical conditions, but the medical concern is not the primary orientation for the student.
• Assist students' safe transitions from/to locations and environments within and around the school (e.g., bus, cafeteria, community-based instruction, etc.).
• Participate in specialized training related to specific individualized needs of eligible students with IEPs.
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with FERPA regulations/Chapter 14.
• Respond appropriately to emergency situations as per standing orders and other policies and procedures.
• Perform such other tasks within the expectation of this job category and/or assume such other responsibilities as may be assigned or delegated by the Superintendent of Schools, principal, or Director of Special Education.

Benefits

The Allentown School District offers a comprehensive benefits package to those who qualify. This may include:

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Reimbursement
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Personal and Sick time
• PSERS Retirement Fund

Eligibility for specific benefits will be outlined in each labor group's specific collective bargaining agreement.