NW PALS SPECIAL EDUCATION PARAPROFESSIONAL

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

The PALS Paraprofessional provides instructional and program support to students with disabilities under the supervision of a certified special education teacher. This position has responsibilities beyond those of a paraprofessional, including leading small group instruction, assisting with IEP implementation, supporting classroom management, and collaborating with families and staff. The Teacher Assistant Aide plays a critical role in ensuring students’ academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate’s degree, some college coursework, or specialized training in education or child development preferred.
• Texas Paraprofessional certification is required.

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Knowledge of instructional strategies and behavior support for students with disabilities (training provided if needed).
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Ability to model patience, empathy, and professionalism when working with students and families.
• Flexibility to support students across multiple grade levels and instructional settings.

Experience:

• Prior experience working with children or young adults with disabilities strongly preferred.
• Experience providing instructional or behavioral support in schools, childcare, or community programs is a plus.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Instructional Support

• Deliver teacher-designed lessons and interventions to individual and small groups.
• Assist with adapting instructional materials and strategies to meet diverse student needs.
• Monitor student progress and provide feedback to the supervising teacher.
• Support generalization of skills across classroom and community settings.

Student Support & Behavior

• Assist in implementing IEP accommodations, modifications, and goals.
• Support behavior intervention plans and classroom management systems.
• Promote student independence in academic, social, and daily living skills.
• Provide redirection and de-escalation strategies when needed.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with the supervising teacher to plan and adjust instructional activities.
• Communicate regularly with the teacher abount student performance and needs.
• Collaborate with other staff members, related service providers,and families.
• Participate in parent meetings, staff trainings, and professional development.

Other

• Maintain confidentiality.

• All other duties assigned.

• Provide personal care as identified in applicable student IEP’s.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Supervise assigned teacher aide(s).

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Environment: Work in classrooms, small group settings, and community-based instruction sites.

• Physical Demands: Frequent standing, walking, lifting, and assisting students with mobility or personal care needs if required.

• Schedule: Follows the district calendar; occasional evening events or training sessions mat be required.