Paraprofessional - Special Education AIM

Position Summary

The A.I.M Program (Adapt, Include, Motivate) is a specially designed program for students on the autism spectrum. Students receive specialized instruction designed to fit their individual needs within a substantially separate classroom with opportunities in the general educational setting when deemed appropriate, by the student's educational team. The program is supported by a team of clinical specialists (BCBA, Occupational Therapist, Speech and Language Pathologist and Counselor). The program's methodology of teaching relies heavily on the philosophy of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) through the utilization of various strategies including discrete trial training (DTT), errorless learning, prompting hierarchies, and incidental teaching. The classrooms also utilize a multi-sensory approach and total communication systems. Generalization of skills and independence are goals for all students within the program. Delivery of instruction occurs in 1:1, small group, and/or large group settings with appropriate supports and behavioral plans in place. The AIM program currently services children in pre-k through 8th grade in both the Capuano Early Childhood Center and the Winter Hill Community Innovation School.

Responsibilities

• Assist with instruction as directed by the teacher
• Develop an understanding of the curriculum
• Support the overall management of the classroom and student behavior
• Provide small group and/or individual instruction under the direction of the classroom teacher
• Provide assistance and supervision of students during cafeteria time, recess and if needed, toileting
• Assist the classroom teacher with the development of curriculum materials
• Help to create and maintain a safe learning environment
• Support students' emotional regulation
• Collect academic and/or behavioral data as directed
• Develop and maintain positive, respectful, and appropriate relationships with students
• Engage positively, respectfully, and professionally with colleagues
• Collaborate with colleagues to support student learning and success
• Positively contribute to a classroom and school community that affirms the identities of all students and staff
• Use practices and approaches that value student diversity
• Protect student confidentiality
• Engage in meaningful professional development opportunities and apply the learning from those experiences
• Understand and utilize appropriate technology
• Complete required paperwork and duties as assigned
• Additional duties as assigned by the Principal/Supervisor and in accordance with the SEU Collective Bargaining Agreement

Physical Requirements

• Standing and walking for prolonged periods; frequent bending, kneeling, stooping, reaching, which may include sitting on the floor to effectively engage with students
• The use of hands and fingers to operate computers, instructional technology, and classroom materials
• Sufficient visual, auditory, and verbal ability to supervise students, deliver instruction, and evaluate student performance
• Ability to lift, carry, and move instructional materials and supplies, weighing up to 15 pounds
• Ability to respond appropriately and promptly to emergency situations to ensure the health and safety of students

Schedule

Temporary position covering a leave starting 9/21/26 and ending 12/18/26. Full-time, 208-day work year including 183 scheduled school days plus 25 additional days outside the regular school year for SPED Summer School Programs.