Special Education Aide

Framingham Public Schools seeks a Special Education Aide to support students with developmental and intellectual impairments in a substantially separate program at Framingham High School for the 2026-2027 school year. A $1,500 stipend is available for paraprofessionals working in Autism classrooms, multi-disabilities classrooms, or on a changing team for students with toileting needs.

About the role

Assist students with disabilities under the direction of a certified teacher in a smaller, specialized setting. The program focuses on developing cognitive skills, communication, social skills, readiness, self-help, and independent living skills. Students often require both modifications and accommodations to the curriculum to maximize learning.

About Framingham

Framingham, Massachusetts, is a vibrant and diverse suburban community 20 miles west of Boston. It blends urban convenience with New England neighborhood charm, offering cultural diversity and a strong community spirit. The Framingham Public School system is committed to equity, inclusion, and student success, with dual language programs, comprehensive special education services, and a dedication to serving a diverse student population. The city also features Framingham State University and abundant outdoor opportunities.

Requirements

• Associate (or higher) degree, or at least two years of post-secondary education equivalent to 48 credit hours from an accredited institution (otherwise must pass the Parapro Test).
• Experience working with children, especially students with disabilities such as Autism, Developmental Delays, Multiple Disabilities, Learning Disabilities, and Emotional Disabilities (preferred).
• Specialized training in child development, education, or a related field (desirable).

Skills and abilities

• Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to present information clearly and respond effectively to students, staff, parents, and community members.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional literature, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.
• Sound reasoning and problem-solving skills to evaluate information, define problems, collect data, and draw valid conclusions.
• Capacity to use professional literature, evidence-based research, and ongoing professional learning to inform decisions.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with students, families, colleagues, and the community.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects.
• Commitment to compliance with district requirements, state and federal laws, and Framingham Public Schools policies.
• Demonstrated cultural proficiency and competence in working with students and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and student records.
• Professionalism and composure in responding to unpredictable or challenging situations.
• Proficiency in using technology, including Google Workspace for Education, and willingness to learn new tools.
• Willingness to participate in ongoing professional learning, coaching, and staff development.
• Experience evaluating student skills, interpreting assessment data, and writing clear, concise reports.
• Strong collaborative, instructional, coaching, and leadership skills to support student programming.
• Ability to use data effectively to inform instructional decisions and improve student outcomes.
• Knowledge of specialized content areas, relevant laws, and educational procedures.
• Ability to plan and implement lessons aligned with district and school goals.
• Proficiency in integrating instructional technology to enhance teaching and learning.
• A proactive, reflective, and solution-focused approach to supporting student growth and success.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the instruction and supervision of students, supporting them academically, socially, and behaviorally in inclusion, small group, individual, or separate settings under the direction of a classroom teacher or special education staff.
• Support students with special needs by following provisions specified in their Individual Education Program (IEP).
• Assist with test administration, including standardized and non-standardized assessments.
• Provide physical management support, including crisis intervention and restraining students at risk of harming themselves or others, following school/district-approved procedures (training provided).
• Attend training and maintain certification in de-escalation and physical management techniques.
• Collect data for individual students and report progress or concerns.
• Escort and supervise students to and from various school facilities and areas.
• Collaborate with special education, general education, and related service staff.
• Assist in establishing a positive learning environment and respond to individual student needs.
• Support students with everyday tasks such as eating, mobility, communication, dressing, and toileting, including diapering.
• Promote independence for students with disabilities.
• Safeguard confidential information in compliance with FERPA and HIPAA.
• Perform other general duties as assigned by the teacher, principal, or supervisors.

Physical working conditions

• Must be able to move about and traverse throughout the school building.
• Must often remain in a stationary position for extended periods.
• Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Expected to lift at least 20 lbs (e.g., books, school supplies).
• Must frequently use hands to handle or feel and use hand strength to grasp tools.
• Must be able to assist students with physical difficulties.
• Must operate a computer and other office equipment (e.g., calculator, copy machine, printer).
• Must be able to input information into a computer and read material from a computer monitor or handwritten/printed matter, with or without visual aids.
• Must communicate effectively with students, parents, and staff in person, via email, and on the telephone.
• Must continuously see and hear in the classroom to ensure student safety and provide instruction.
• May be required to move quickly across even or uneven surfaces.
• Must interact with students, parents, and staff to meet multiple demands.
• While most work is indoors, must accompany students outdoors for recess, fire drills, and special activities.
• May be exposed to bodily fluids, disease, or pathogens.
• May receive injuries from aggressive students.
• May require physical interaction with students who have difficulty controlling behavior.
• May provide limited personal care to students, including lifting or positioning students.
• Must be able to stand, walk, and/or push a wheelchair for extended periods.
• May assist with toileting, depending on student needs.

Benefits

Framingham Public Schools offers a comprehensive benefits package. Click here for more information about our benefits.

Schedule

This position follows the Framingham Public Schools academic calendar for the 2026-2027 school year.

This position is classified as Non-Exempt (Hourly) and is covered under the Framingham Teachers Association (Unit T) Contract.