Paraprofessional (Life Skills Support)

Summary

An instructional paraprofessional is a school employee who works under the direction of a certificated staff member to support and assist in providing instructional, behavioral, and functional programs and services to children with disabilities or eligible young children. The support and assistance include one-on-one or group review of material taught by certificated staff, classroom management, and implementation of positive behavior support plans. Services may be provided in a special education class, regular education class, or other instructional setting (e.g., community-based instruction) as provided in the student's IEP.

Qualifications

• Must meet educational requirements for "highly qualified paraprofessional," as defined by federal laws (No Child Left Behind and IDEA) and 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.
• Must 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 alternative qualifications as the board or superintendent may determine appropriate and acceptable.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the principal and other professionals in maintaining a safe and orderly school environment.
• Assist special education and regular education teachers in delivering appropriate instructional and tutorial strategies as per the individualized educational plan (IEP).
• Under the direction of the teacher, provide instructional support (e.g., administering tests, tutoring, or reinforcing instruction).
• Collect observational and academic data for progress monitoring under teacher direction.
• Maintain students' files/records for documentation and reliable information.
• Follow and implement positive behavior support plans under teacher direction.
• Handle students' personal needs (e.g., feeding, toileting, diapering) for care, regardless of medical conditions.
• Assist with students' safe transitions within and around the school (e.g., bus, cafeteria, community-based instruction).
• 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 policies.
• Perform other tasks or responsibilities as assigned by the Superintendent, principal, or Director of Special Education.
• May be reassigned to support special education students based on priority needs during short-term absences of other paraprofessionals or assigned students.

Additional Information

Starting Salary: $20.16/hr. The Allentown School District is committed to excellence and celebrates the diversity of its students, who originate from 51 countries and speak 26 languages. The district offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, tuition reimbursement, personal and sick time, and the PSERS Retirement Fund, subject to eligibility as outlined in collective bargaining agreements.