Paraprofessional

Primary Purpose

Provide instructional, behavioral, and physical support to students under the direction of a certified teacher. Assist with classroom instruction, student supervision, behavior management, self-help skills, and implementation of individualized instructional and support programs to promote student success and safety.

Qualifications

Education/Certification

• High school diploma or GED required
• Have met formal academic assessment, associate's degree, or two years of study at an institution of higher learning as required
• Valid Texas educational aide certificate required

Special Knowledge/Skills

• Ability to work effectively with children and students with diverse learning needs
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to assist with instructional activities and classroom management
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and staff
• Ability to support student behavior management and personal care needs as assigned
• Knowledge of general office and instructional equipment
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism

Experience

• Experience working with children preferred
• Experience supporting students with disabilities preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties

Instructional Support

• Assist teachers with preparation of instructional materials and classroom activities
• Provide instructional support to individual students or small groups under teacher direction
• Assist with classroom organization, displays, and instructional resources
• Assist with administration and scoring of assignments and assessments as directed
• Support implementation of instructional and intervention programs
• Help maintain neat and orderly classroom environments
• Assist with inventory, care, and maintenance of instructional equipment and materials
• Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers as needed

Student Management and Support

• Assist with supervision of students throughout the school day including classroom, lunchroom, bus, and playground settings
• Support implementation of student behavior management plans and interventions
• Assist students with physical disabilities and personal care needs including feeding, hygiene, lifting, transferring, and positioning as assigned
• Recognize and respond appropriately to students' medical, physical, communicative, emotional, and behavioral needs
• Assist with crisis intervention and student safety procedures as required
• Keep teachers informed regarding student needs, concerns, and progress

Operational and Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain confidentiality of student and district information
• Assist teachers with administrative records and required documentation
• Participate in professional development, faculty meetings, and campus events as assigned
• Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures
• Promote positive relationships with students, staff, and families

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including computer and peripherals; instructional and adaptive equipment as assigned

Posture: Frequent standing; kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
Motion: Frequent walking, reaching, and assisting students

Lifting: Frequent light lifting and carrying; occasional heavy lifting and positioning of students and equipment may be required

Environment: Work inside and outside; exposure to noise, weather conditions, and biological hazards
Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress