PRESCHOOL INTEGRATED CLASSROOM PARA EDUCATOR 6.5 HRS

Internal applicants: open 07/22/2026 through 07/28/2026 at 4 PM. External applicants: open until filled if no internal applicants are selected.

Pay

• New hires: $16.39/hr for General Education; $16.00/hr + $4.00 differential for Special Education
• Current bargaining-unit employees: refer to the salary schedule established by the applicable bargaining group
• This split assignment pays 3.00 hours at $16.39/hr (General Education) and 3.50 hours at $16.00/hr + $4.00 (Special Education)

Responsibilities

• Provide services for special education students in both general and Special Education settings
• Work with students exhibiting moderate to severe behavioral disabilities and learning difficulties, including Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Accept direction from general and special education teachers and support staff
• Assist with managing behavior and physical disabilities of children
• Support daily activities and routine care of students
• Collaborate with teachers using developmentally appropriate practices
• Monitor students’ progress by keeping records and providing feedback as requested
• Follow teacher direction for instruction
• Use positive reinforcement and appropriate guidance techniques to manage behavior during transitions, activities, redirection, and playground assistance
• Help children build internal control
• Engage in ongoing staff development
• Model flexibility as student needs change
• Assist in arrival and departure of students
• Lift up to 50 lbs and perform diapering duties
• Model enthusiasm and patience
• Work flexible hours to meet operational needs of the early learning center
• Complete required DHS training hours annually
• Complete Infant/Child/Adult CPR and First Aid within 6 months of hire and maintain certification
• Complete Universal Precaution and Exposure training prior to start date and maintain certification
• Meet NAEYC, QPPS, DHS, and Head Start Performance Standards
• Complete or show proof of DHS Essentials training within 90 days of hire
• Build rapport with culturally diverse students and families to support each child’s full potential
• Maintain good attendance and punctuality
• Support and implement Davenport’s multi-tiered system of supports for behavior and academics
• Work in an environment with a possible therapy dog on school premises
• Meet NAEYC requirements or complete them within a specified timeframe
• Hold and maintain a Mandatory Child and Dependent Adult Abuse Reporter Certificate
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Minimum of CDA Certificate OR AA Degree or higher in Early Childhood field (QPPS/Head Start Requirements) OR successfully complete the Iowa Paraprofessional classes and obtain the Iowa Paraprofessional Certificate within two years of hire
• If associate degree or higher is in a related field, must complete CDA requirements or equivalent within a timeframe determined at hire
• Pass the Medicaid Fraud background check prior to hire and maintain clearance (checked multiple times per year)
• Complete background check, fingerprinting, and physical every two years per DHS Guidelines
• Strong interpersonal skills with a proven record of working with culturally diverse students and families

Physical Requirements

• Ability to withstand weather for outside activities
• Must be able to lift, pull, and push 50 lbs
• Must be able to sit and kneel on the floor

Desired Qualifications

• Positive attitude toward special needs children
• Ability to work collaboratively with teachers and staff
• Good communication and organizational skills
• Patient, compassionate, and sensitive individual willing to work with a diverse population
• Recognition of the need for confidentiality regarding children’s and parents’ rights to privacy
• Friendly and caring demeanor