Preschool Developmental Program Paraprofessional

Position Purpose

Provides instructional, behavioral, developmental, and personal care support to preschool students ages 3–5 who qualify for special education services. Assists the Preschool Teacher of Record in implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), facilitating developmentally appropriate learning experiences, promoting independence, and maintaining a safe, nurturing, and inclusive early childhood classroom environment.

Essential Functions

• Assist the Preschool Teacher of Record in implementing instructional activities aligned with students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Support students during play-based instruction, small-group learning, center activities, and structured classroom routines.
• Reinforce communication, social-emotional, adaptive, motor, cognitive, and early academic skills through teacher-directed activities and daily interactions.
• Implement behavior intervention strategies and positive behavior supports as directed by the Teacher of Record and other members of the educational team.
• Assist students with transitions, self-regulation, and participation in classroom routines while promoting independence whenever possible.
• Provide assistance with feeding, toileting, dressing, hygiene, mobility, and other personal care needs as appropriate while maintaining student dignity and privacy.
• Prepare instructional materials, organize learning centers, and maintain a safe, clean, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment.
• Collect observational data and assist with documentation related to student progress as directed by the Teacher of Record.
• Support the implementation of therapy activities recommended by Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, and other related service providers under their supervision.
• Supervise students during arrival, dismissal, recess, meals, field trips, and other school activities to ensure student safety.
• Maintain positive, professional relationships with families while referring instructional and programmatic questions to the Teacher of Record.
• Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, professional development, and required district safety training.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and information in accordance with FERPA, IDEA, and district policies.
• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to support the evolving needs of preschool students and programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or college coursework in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Special Education, or a related field preferred.
• Must meet Indiana requirements for instructional paraprofessionals.
• Experience working with preschool-aged children or students with disabilities preferred.
• Knowledge of child development, positive behavior supports, and developmentally appropriate practices preferred.
• Ability to work collaboratively with teachers, related service providers, administrators, and families.
• CPR/AED certification and completion of all required state and district trainings.
• Demonstrates patience, flexibility, initiative, and a commitment to supporting young learners with diverse needs.

Physical Demands

• Ability to move about school buildings and occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
• Sufficient vision, hearing, and speech to conduct assessments and communicate effectively.
• Frequent use of hands for typing, writing, and test administration.
• Work is primarily in a school setting with moderate noise; some travel between schools may be required.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment

• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• There are no environmental hazards indicated for this position.