Preschool Developmental Program Paraprofessional

About the role

The Preschool Developmental Paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, developmental, and personal care support to preschool students ages 3–5 who qualify for special education services. This role 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.

Responsibilities

• Aid in implementing instructional activities aligned with students' 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.
• 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.

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.