The Paraprofessional's responsibilities include assisting the teacher with teaching new concepts or translating information for students to understand better, supervising students, and providing students with a positive, nurturing guide. The paraprofessional will deal with students, parents, staff, and the community in a professional manner, and follow and uphold school rules and standards.
To be successful as a paraprofessional, you should demonstrate patience, compassion, and empathy when dealing with students, as well as professionalism when representing the school. You should have strong management and organizational skills, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
A+ Charter Schools is seeking a passionate and dedicated Paraprofessional to join our team. While all portions of this job description are imperative to the Paraprofessional position, the following items are essential functions of the position.
- Industry Savvy: Understand and support the school’s mission, instructional model, and curriculum. Explain the school program using appropriate industry terminology.
- Communication: Communicate effectively and professionally with co-workers, families, businesses, and the public. Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
- Professionalism: Adhere to ethical standards, school rules, and attendance policies. Exercise discretion regarding information visible or overheard by others.
- Managing People: Demonstrate conflict management skills through active listening, problem-solving, and working with diverse individuals.
- Decision Making & Problem Solving: Use a thoughtful approach in evaluating options; seek input when necessary.
- Computer Skills: Utilize school systems and learn new software quickly.
- Physical Dexterity: Perform job duties requiring standing, walking, bending, sitting, reaching, and lifting up to 40 lbs. Maintain vision capabilities (close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and focus).
Classroom & Instructional Support:
- Assist students in all aspects of classroom instruction to maximize learning and achievement.
- Reinforce lesson plans under the direction of the classroom teacher.
- Work with students (individually or in groups) to reinforce reading, language arts, math, computer skills, and other subjects.
- Prepare and adapt instructional materials based on individual student needs.
- Assist with administering and correcting classroom exercises, projects, and assessments.
- Maintain accurate record-keeping of student progress and performance.
- Support classroom behavioral management to ensure a safe and orderly environment.
- Supervise students in non-instructional areas (lunch, playground, hallways, study hall, etc.).
Additional Duties:
- Assist guidance, student services, or building administration as needed.
- Participate in parent-teacher and faculty meetings and events.
- Collaborate with students, parents, and staff to enhance the instructional environment.
- Perform any other related duties to support the effective functioning of the school.
Competencies:
- Excellent communication skills
- Proficiency in computer applications
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Ability to multitask and remain detail-oriented
- Self-motivated and innovative mindset
- Proficiency in math, reading, and language arts
Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:
- Must pass a criminal background check and either be able to obtain or already have a IVP Level 1 valid fingerprint clearance card.
- High school diploma or equivalent (required)
- Paraprofessional Certification (preferred)
- Preferred: Two years of college coursework or an associate’s degree (or higher)
- Deep understanding of relevant subject area, with the ability to effectively differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of students.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.