2026-2027 Paraprofessional III - Cowden Elementary School

Springfield-Public-Schools,-Ma; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 26,000 - 43,000; Full time

Job summary

Springfield Public Schools Cowden Elementary is seeking a Paraprofessional III to support instructional programs under the Special Education Services department in Springfield, Missouri. The role focuses on assisting individual students toward behavior goals and social skills while aiding in classroom instruction.

The ideal candidate has at least 60 college hours or a DESE-approved substitute training certificate, plus required certificates and background clearance.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic math concepts including fractions, percentages and ratios.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for diverse students and staff.
• Experience assisting in instructional activities and student support.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers in adapting and presenting instructional materials to students.
• Support individual students to reach behavior goals and social competencies.
• Attend meetings and trainings as needed and communicate student progress to teachers.
• Document observations and maintain records of student performance and safety.

Skills

Basic math knowledge

Interpersonal skills

Instructional support

Education

60 college hours

DESE substitute training certificate

Job description

2026-2027 Paraprofessional III - Cowden Elementary School

Springfield Public Schools Cowden Elementary - Springfield, Missouri Open in Google Maps

Job Details

Job ID: 5966202

Application Deadline: Posted until filled

Posted: Oct 20, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Description

Job Title: Paraprofessional III

Department: Special Education Services

Pay Grade: H171

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Principal

GENERAL PURPOSE

Responsible for providing support to the instructional program with specific responsibility for assisting individual students in reaching targeted behavior goals and social competencies; assisting in the instruction of individual or small groups of students in a variety of subject areas; and monitoring and reporting student behavior and performance.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Assist teachers in specialized and/or general education classroom in adapting, preparing and presenting a variety of instructional materials, activities and assignments, presenting and/or reinforcing learning concepts.


• Assist assigned instructional staff in improving student's learning skills, self-care, and/or social development providing learning concepts and materials.


• Attend meetings, workshops, conferences, trainings, etc. receiving and conveying information relative to job functions.


• Communicate with teachers regarding assigned students' progress, participating in needs assessments and assisting in evaluating progress.


• Document observations of student performance in academic and school activities providing written records and complying with mandated requirements.


• Escort students providing direction and ensuring their welfare.


• Guide students with disabilities in personal interactions, developing interpersonal skills and successful problem-solving strategies.


• Maintain manual and electronic instructional files and records providing written reference and meeting mandated requirements.


• Monitor students' performance, under the direction of assigned classroom teacher, providing feedback to students, teachers and/or others involved in the provision of services in accordance with IEPs as appropriate.


• Report health and safety issues to instructional personnel, administrative personnel, and/or appropriate agencies maintaining students’ personal safety, a positive learning environment and complying with regulatory requirements and established guidelines.


• Support students in a variety of educational environments providing a safe and positive learning environment.


• Perform other related duties as required/assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Education and Experience

• Minimum of 60 college hours completed OR Certificate of completion from a DESE approved Substitute Training program

Certificates, Licenses and Other Special Requirements

• Must obtain and maintain Missouri Substitute Teaching Certificate.


• Obtain and maintain physical intervention training.


• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.


• Must pass a Criminal Background Clearance, the results of which must be satisfactory to the District, required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of basic math, including calculations using fractions, percentages, and/or ratios; read a variety of manuals, write documents following prescribed formats, and/or present information to others; and analyze situations to define issues and draw conclusions.


• Knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: child guidance principles and practices, especially as they relate to students with learning disabilities; instructional materials and techniques used in Special Education; safe practices in classroom and other activities; correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; reading and writing communication skills; and record keeping techniques.


• Skill to perform multiple, technical tasks with a need to routinely upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions.


• Skill based competencies required to perform the functions of the job, including operating standard office equipment including using pertinent software applications; and preparing and maintaining accurate records.


• Ability to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups.


• Ability to adhere to safety practices; meet deadlines and schedules; work under time constraints; and communicate with diverse groups.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

• Work environment is primarily inside, where the noise and temperature levels are moderate.


• The work is medium work that requires exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.


• Must possess the physical ability to perceive the nature of sounds, make rational decisions through sound logic and deductive processes, express or exchange ideas by the spoken word, substantial movements (motions) with the hands, wrists, and/or fingers, and discern letters or numbers at a given distance.


• Additionally, the following physical abilities are required: balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, feeling, grasping, handling, hearing, kneeling, manual dexterity, mental acuity, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, standing, stooping, talking, visual acuity and walking.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $18.62 to $31.41 Per Hour

Job Categories

Instructional Support > Paraprofessional / IA

Special Education > Mild/Moderate Disabilities

Contact Information

• Springfield Public Schools R-12 , Human Resources Department


• 1359 E. Saint Louis St.


• Springfield, Missouri 65802


• Phone: [phone]


• Email: [e-mail]