Full Time Special Education Paraeducator

Special Education Paraeducator at Manheim Elementary

The South Western School District is looking for a highly qualified, innovative, and passionate employee for the full time Special Education Paraeducator at Manheim Elementary. South Western School District is located in Hanover Pennsylvania. As part of the South Central region of the state, the district of 4400 students and 700 staff prides itself on empowering team members to take bold risks and participate in important decisions for student success. The district's motto "Once a Mustang Always a Mustang" helps to capture our philosophy of commitment and community. We believe in continuous growth for all stakeholders, striving to be innovative, responsible and ethical contributors to our community and beyond. Come join our highly effective and collaborative team!

South Western School District Position Description

POSITION TITLE | Paraeducator (FT Special Education)

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 10 Month Full Time (30+ hours per week) Status Non-Exempt JOB CLASSIFICATION: Support Staff - Paraeducator POSITION QUALIFICATIONS High School Diploma or equivalent (Associates degree or higher, or diploma from an accredited administrative assistant training program preferred) Current CPR/First Aid Certification REPORTS TO: Building Principal(s) WORK ENVIRONMENT: Paraeducators work directly with faculty and staff in their assigned buildings to support students in specialized or general education settings.

JOB SUMMARY: The Paraeducator provides essential academic, behavioral, and personal support to students with disabilities to ensure successful progress in their learning environment. Working under the direction of classroom teachers and building administration, this role involves delivering one-on-one or small-group instructional assistance, monitoring student engagement, and implementing individualized supports as defined by a child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Service Agreement. The Paraeducator maintains a positive, organized classroom environment and assists in communication with staff, students, and parents to foster a supportive educational experience.

ESSENTIAL TASKS

• Assist all students on assigned activities and skills in either small group or individualized structures.
• Provide individualized assistance to students with specialized needs as defined through IEPs or 504 Service Agreements.
• Assist teachers in maintaining accurate student records and documentation to track progress and behaviors.
• Prepare and organize instructional materials and provide clerical support as needed.

Classroom Management and Student Support

• Monitor student behavior and help carry out positive behavior support and intervention plans.
• Assist students with organizational skills, routines, and transitions.
• Provide emotional and social support to students as necessary to maintain a positive learning environment.
• Perform specific personal care tasks when required by a student's IEP or 504 service agreement, including assistance with daily living activities (toileting, feeding, dressing) and mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers).
• Utilize specialized communication tools and techniques for students with communication difficulties.

Other Responsibilities and Essential Functions

• Supervise students during non-instructional times, such as arrival, dismissal, recess, lunch, or hallway transitions.
• Assist in building tasks and activities as requested by administration
• Assist teachers in the preparation of the physical classroom for daily learning activities.

KEY PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES (KSA):

Knowledge:

• Understanding of child growth and development and how it influences behavior and learning ability.
• Grasp of foundational concepts in reading, math, science, and social studies to assist with student assignments.
• Knowledge of basic strategies and documentation methods to maintain a productive and positive learning environment.

Skills:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing situations and manage tasks efficiently.
• Basic computer skills for clerical and instructional use.
• Ability to apply CPR/First Aide skills in emergency situations

Abilities:

• Demonstrate patience, compassion, and strong interpersonal skills.
• Identify and address student behavioral challenges with appropriate, adapted responses based on specific student needs.
• Collaborate effectively with teachers and support staff to problem-solve and enhance student learning.
• Understand and follow complex directions provided by faculty and administration.

Able to hear with 40 decibel loss maximum and see with acuity of 20 inches or less and far acuity of at least 20 feet normal depth perception, field of vision and accommodation. Must be able to reach above and below the waist, walk and use fingers to pick, feel and grasp objects.

Requires use of both hands for repetitive motion. Some bending and twisting of the body required. Lifts/carries supplies and papers weighing no more than 40 lbs. Typical office environment with ability to sit eighty percent (80%) of workday.

EEOC

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.