Paraprofessional - Tier I

Full-time, 176-day contract position supporting lead teachers and assisting students with individual physical, social, academic, and other needs.

Responsibilities

• Assists with individualized student instruction using lessons developed by the teacher.
• Provides supplementary work for students and supervises independent study.
• Reinforces lessons with small groups of students.
• Assists with individualized written and oral materials.
• Observes, records, and charts student behavior under teacher direction.
• Implements positive behavioral management strategies as directed.
• Prepares materials for specific instructional programs.
• Accompanies students to resource rooms and other programs.
• Monitors students in cafeteria, playground, and similar settings.
• Operates audiovisual and office equipment.
• Assists students with adaptive behavior skills, including personal and hygienic care.
• Sets up and maintains special classroom equipment and learning centers.
• Supervises students during emergency drills, assemblies, play periods, and field trips.
• Alerts the teacher to the special needs of individual children.
• Assists students with transition activities.
• Maintains confidentiality of student information.
• Develops cooperative relationships with district staff; ensures consistent and punctual attendance.
• Completes special projects and other duties as assigned by the administrator.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• One of the following:
  • Associate Degree or higher,
  • 48 hours of college credit,
  • Passed the ParaPro (paraprofessional test),
  • Passed the OGET (Oklahoma General Education Test), or
  • Passed the WorkKey.
• One year of experience in a closely related field preferred.
• Basic knowledge of disabilities.
• Computer literate with excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of education and special education rules, regulations, policies, and laws.
• Ability to follow district policies and procedures.
• Ability to work independently, displaying initiative and enthusiasm.
• Strong communication skills with faculty, staff, team members, and administrators.
• Ability to work without supervision and as a team player.
• Ability to document records accurately and manage confidential information.
• Maintain CPR, First Aid, and CPI certification.
• Complete 6 hours of continuing education for paraprofessionals annually.

Skills

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret English.
• Effective communication with supervisors, school personnel, and co-workers.
• Basic math functions such as addition and subtraction.
• Ability to apply common sense to carry out written and oral instructions.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to stand, talk, or hear.
• Frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, or crouch.
• Occasionally lift or carry 45 pounds or more.
• Frequently walk the length of school hallways.

Work Environment

• Work environment can be stressful at times but is usually calm.
• Many interruptions in routine due to student behavior or accommodations.
• Must have own transportation to sites.