Self-Contained Special Education Paraeducator (Thunder Mountain Middle School)

Position Type: Support Staff/Special Education Paraeducator; Date Posted: 8/25/2026; Location: Thunder Mountain Middle School; Date Available: ASAP; Closing Date: OPEN UNTIL FILLED; FTE: .9333 (Full Time).

About the role

Works primarily with students who are in special education and enrolled in BEST (Behavioral Education Support Team), DEC-C (Developmental Education Classroom-Communication), DEC (Developmental Educational Classroom), or the Transitions program. Presents material and activities to improve skills in assigned areas, which may include reading, writing, math, computers and/or vocational education. Works individually or in small groups. Records grades and does data collection for other measures of students' progress or behavior.

Responsibilities

• Present material and activities to improve skills in assigned areas (reading, writing, math, computers, vocational education)
• Work individually or in small groups with students
• Record grades and collect data on student progress and behavior

Requirements

• High School Diploma
• Some prior experience working with school-age children preferred
• CPR, first aid, and district‑approved behavior management techniques may be required (including understanding behavior modification, remaining calm under stress, de‑escalating angry/aggressive students, handling crisis situations)
• Valid Alaska driver’s license required
• Must have either an AA degree, 48 semester hours, or be willing to take and pass the WorkKeys exam (support available)

Skills

• Knowledge of files and record keeping
• Knowledge of personal computers and related software
• Knowledge of school‑age children’s behavior
• Knowledge of behavior modification (including emotionally disturbed)
• Maintain confidentiality
• Provide instructional assistance in assigned areas
• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing (with students, staff, supervisors, parents)
• Operate a personal computer and related software
• Maintain effective working relationships with staff, students and parents (understand cultural, family and disability issues; adapt techniques as needed)

Benefits

We offer an excellent benefit package including medical, dental, vision, the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) plan, and paid time off.

Pay

Starting salary: $27.40 per hour.

Schedule

Permanent, full‑time 9‑month position, working 35 hours per week.