JOB DESCRIPTION:  SPED Paraprofessional (Self-Contained)

CONTRACT TERMS:  182-Day Calendar (49% Retired)

REPORTS TO:  Building Principal & Special Education Director

SALARY SCHEDULE:  SCCS Classified Salary Schedule  

• Rank I -  Grade 2: High School Diploma or Equivalent
• Rank II - Grade 4: 60+ College Credit Hours

Fair Labor Standards Act:  Non-exempt

OVERALL PURPOSE:

The job of the SPED Paraprofessional (Self-Contained) is to support the delivery of special education services by assisting the classroom teacher in implementing individualized instruction, behavioral supports, and daily living skills for students with disabilities; ensuring implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and related plans; and providing a safe, supportive, and structured learning environment aligned with federal, state, and district requirements.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education:
  • Education level must be in accordance with federal, state, and local guidelines
• Certification:
  • Certification as mandated by the Professional Standards Commission
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as may be appropriate and acceptable

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

• Knowledge of special education practices and supports for students with disabilities.
• Basic understanding of IEPs, behavior intervention plans (BIPs), and accommodations.
• Ability to support students with diverse learning, behavioral, and physical needs.
• Ability to follow instructional plans and implement teacher-directed strategies.
• Ability to assist with data collection and documentation of student progress.
• Ability to safely assist with lifting, mobility, and personal care needs.
• Ability to use instructional and assistive technology.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & DUTIES:

Instructional Support

• Assists the teacher in implementing instructional activities aligned to student IEP goals.
• Provides small group and individual support based on teacher-developed lesson plans.
• Uses instructional strategies and techniques as directed by certified staff.
• Supports students in accessing the curriculum and participating in classroom activities.

Student Support & Specialized Care

• Provides direct support to students in a self-contained classroom setting, including one-on-one assistance as needed.
• Assists with personal care needs, including toileting, feeding, hygiene, and mobility.
• Supports students with medical, physical, or adaptive equipment as required.
• Assists with safely and appropriately lifting and positioning students.
• Implements behavior intervention strategies, including de-escalation and approved crisis response techniques, as trained.

IEP Implementation & Compliance (IDEA/504-Aligned)

• Assists in implementing IEPs, behavior plans, healthcare plans, and accommodations as directed by the teacher or service providers.
• Supports documentation and data collection related to student progress and behavior.
• Maintains confidentiality of student information in accordance with federal and state laws.

Classroom & Learning Environment Support

• Assists in preparing instructional materials, including copying, organizing, and creating learning supports.
• Maintains classroom organization, cleanliness, and safety.
• Supports the use of instructional and assistive technology.
• Assists in the inventory and organization of classroom materials and equipment.

Student Supervision & Safety

• Supervises students in classroom and school settings, including transitions, arrival/dismissal, and bus loading/unloading.
• May assist with student transportation, including riding the bus when required.
• Ensures adherence to safety procedures and supports a secure learning environment.

Collaboration & Communication

• Communicates regularly with the teacher regarding student performance, behavior, and needs.
• Collaborates with teachers and support staff to ensure consistent implementation of supports.
• Participates in training and professional learning related to student needs and job responsibilities.

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintains required licenses, certifications, and credentials.
• Follows work scheduling and attendance requirements in a regular, predictable, and punctual manner.
• Participates in required training, including safety, behavior management, and specialized student supports.
• Reviews current practices and information related to assigned responsibilities.
• Follows federal and state laws, including IDEA, Section 504, and ADA, as well as Board policies and district procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The position requires frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and significant fine motor skills. Duties may include assisting students with mobility and personal care. Generally, the job requires 30% sitting, 40% walking, and 30% standing.

EVALUATION: 

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the Board’s policy on evaluations of classified staff.

CLEARANCES: 

Criminal Justice Fingerprint 

Background Clearance

NONDISCRIMINATION NOTICE

The Social Circle City School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, or sex in its employment practices.  It is the policy of the Board of Education to comply fully with the requirements of Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), and all accompanying regulations.