Paraprofessional: Essential Skills Program - Amazonia Elementary

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Provide instructional, behavioral, and personal support to students with significant developmental disabilities under the direction of the special education teacher.
• Aid students in developing functional academic, communication, social-emotional, adaptive, and daily living skills.
• Support students during classroom instruction, small group activities, community-based instruction, transitions, and inclusion opportunities as appropriate.
• Implement instructional strategies, accommodations, behavior support plans, and interventions as directed by certified staff.
• Use visual supports, assistive technology, sensory supports, and structured routines to promote student success.
• Encourage student independence, self-regulation, and positive peer interactions.

Behavior & Safety Support

• Maintain a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment.
• Support students with behavioral, emotional, and sensory needs using positive behavior support strategies.
• Follow district procedures related to student supervision, crisis response, confidentiality, and behavior intervention.
• Provide support with personal care needs, including toileting, feeding, hygiene, mobility, and lifting as needed in accordance with student IEPs and district procedures.
• Maintain awareness of student medical, safety, and communication needs.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work collaboratively with special education teachers, related service providers, administrators, and general education staff to support student success.
• Communicate professionally and respectfully with staff, students, and families.
• Participate in team meetings, training opportunities, and ongoing professional learning as directed.
• Accept direction and feedback from supervising staff and implement supports consistently.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to work effectively with students impacted by developmental disabilities and diverse learning needs.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Ability to physically assist students as needed, including lifting, positioning, and mobility support.

PREFERRED

• Paraprofessional certification or completion of required Missouri substitute/paraprofessional requirements.
• Experience working with students with developmental disabilities, ASD, behavioral needs, or adaptive skill instruction.
• Training or experience in behavior support, CPI, sensory regulation strategies, or assistive technology.