Head Start Paraprofessional

Paraprofessional (Head Start) Location: Site Level School Reports To: School Principal FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Salary Range: Per WBR Salary Schedule Terms of Employment: 9 Months GENERAL OVERVIEW The paraprofessional working in Head Start, Pre-K, Regular Education or Special Education classrooms shall work directly with students under the direct supervision of the classroom teacher to assist with the effective management/instruction of the class/classes to which he or she is assigned.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES * Assists with the effective management/instructional needs of the students for the class/classes to which he or she is assigned under the direction of the classroom teacher and principal.

* Interacts appropriately with students, and assists in creating an environment conducive to learning.

* Attends to students' physical, personal, academic, and emotional needs.

* Assists in maintaining discipline standards according to the regulations of the school system and the assigned teacher.

* Reinforces lessons presented by the teacher.

* Provides individualized or small group instruction.

* Assists with lesson planning and preparation.

* Helps students with assignments and homework.

* Takes attendance and collects paperwork as needed.

* Assists with supplementary work for advanced pupils.

* Assists with handling of specialized equipment, computer, software, assistive language devices, etc.

as directed by the classroom teacher.

* Attends faculty meetings, parent conferences/meetings, and IEP meetings when requested.

* Assists in maintaining classroom equipment and assists in keeping materials of instruction organized and clean * Maintains student confidentiality.

* Accompanies students to other classes, the restroom, recess, etc as needed.

* Assists with feeding, diapering, and toileting, as well as other custodial or health-related duties as required for Head Start students and students with disabilities.

* Makes necessary wheelchair/equipment adjustments and positioning needed throughout the school day.

* Lifts and moves students as necessary.

* Assists in meeting the medical needs of students with disabilities: catheterization, administration of medication, etc.

after proper training is provided.

* Becomes knowledgeable of and assists with the implementation of appropriate educational programs/standards.

* Participates in grade level/subject areas meetings and /professional development activities, PLC's as needed.

* Communicate effectively with students, teachers, and parents.

* Adapt to different situations and student needs.

* Performs all other duties as assigned by the appropriate Supervisor.

PERSONAL TRAITS Exhibits competency in the following areas: * Poise and self-confidence * Enthusiasm and optimism * Punctuality * Dependability * Flexibility * Willingness to implement recommendations * Acceptable speech and grammar * Effective communication with students * Discreet handling of confidential information * Unbiased attitude regarding race, sex, creed, religion or disability * Effective communication with colleagues and other adults MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS * Must have accomplished at least one of the following: * Passed the Educational Testing Service (ETS) Para-Pro Assessment (ETS Para-Pro Assessment #0755) with a passing score of 450; or * Completed two years of full-time study (48 semester credit hours) from a state-approved or regionally accredited institution of higher education and have 9 hours of English and 9 hours of Math coursework within these 48 semester hours or * Earned an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, or Associate of Applied Science degree from a state-approved or regionally accredited institution of higher education with 9 hours of English and 9 hours of Math coursework within the Associates degree program