AFSCME - Paraeducator @ BHS (3 Position Openings)

Young World Physical Education; Bellingham (MA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Young World Physical Education is seeking a Paraeducator to assist in Bellingham High School. The ideal candidate will have an associate degree or valid certification and experience working with children in educational settings.

This position involves assisting teachers with instruction, managing classroom behavior, and providing support to students including those with disabilities. Responsibilities include classroom support, participation in staff development, and implementing individual student plans as necessary.

Qualifications

• Passing score on ParaPro Test or state-approved assessment.
• Prior experience working with children preferred.
• Ability to move up to 20 pounds, assist students up to 75 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Assist the teacher with student instruction.
• Manage classroom behavior effectively.
• Participate in staff development programs.

Skills

Assistive Technology

Google Meets

Google Classroom

Behavior modification

Teamwork

Education

Associate degree or higher

Job description

Job Title

Paraeducator

Location

Bellingham High School, Bellingham, Massachusetts

Schedule

Ten (10) months – 184 days following school calendar. 35 hours/week (7 hours/day)

Starting Date

August 24, 2026

Reports To

Principal, BCBA, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services or Designee

Qualifications

• Passing score on the ParaPro Test or other state‑approved assessment program (ParaPro waived with an associate degree).
• Willingness to accept direction and cooperate with all staff.
• Prior experience working with children in a school setting (preferred).
• Evidence of emotional maturity and stability necessary for the specialized work involved.
• Physical requirements: ability to move in and out of the school building, lift and carry material up to 20 pounds, and assist with positioning of students up to 75 pounds with assistance.
• Ability to climb stairs, kneel, and move easily on and off floor mats.
• Ability to use good judgment, exercise tact and diplomacy, respect confidential matters, and show sensitivity to the problems of children.
• Willingness and ability to learn and use Assistive Technology.
• Proficiency with online platforms such as Google Meets and Google Classroom.
• Any alternatives acceptable to the Superintendent of Schools.

Performance Responsibilities

• Assist the teacher with student instruction, both direct and indirect.
• Assist with selecting and utilizing educational materials and general supplies.
• Assist in administering achievement and/or diagnostic testing.
• Assist in implementing behavior modification programs.
• Assist with general classroom management and addressing student behavior.
• Assist in supervising students involved in school activities.
• Assist in preparing for daily activities during regularly scheduled hours.
• Assume responsibility for classroom teacher in their absence, including a daily rate increase when needed.
• Flexibility to perform duties across a variety of classrooms and school environments.
• Participate in required staff development programs.
• Under supervision of a certified teacher, and in accordance with the student’s IEP, prepare for instructional events and other educational or non‑educational activities.
• Implement support strategies and interventions to reinforce skills based on individual student needs.
• Provide positive role modeling and treat students with respect.
• Assist in the teaching process and work directly with children in academics, social skills, self‑care (ADLs), and vocational skills.
• Assist and reinforce generalization of skill development and community integration.
• Complete onboarding, district policies, and mandatory trainings.
• Serve as a resource person for students, communicating with teachers regarding specific instruction.
• Assist in behavioral interventions and be able to achieve Safety Care certification (full restraint training provided).
• Assist in implementing treatment plans, health plans, safety plans, and behavior plans for various students.
• Perform data collection if required.
• Work as a member of a team with other staff members (BCBA, RBT, etc.).
• Apply ABA strategies (training provided).
• Assist with toileting certain students with disabilities when required.
• Lift and carry students with disabilities per IEP when required.
• Any other duties as directed by the Principal, BCBA, and/or Director of Student Services.

Work with Individuals and Small Groups

• Reinforce material initially introduced by the teacher.
• Assist with self‑help and independence skills.
• Implement remedial and review exercises, practice, and drill work as outlined by the teacher.
• Provide independent study, enrichment, or remedial work as directed.
• Help students master instructional tasks assigned by teachers.
• Assist with test taking, use of instructional tasks, and instructional technology.
• Observe and note performance and behaviors.
• Implement curriculum modifications or accommodations designed by professional staff.

Assist Teachers with Non‑Instructional Duties

• Escort and supervise movement of students throughout the school.
• Assist students boarding and exiting transportation vehicles.
• Proctor testing and provide makeup work assistance.
• Assist with toileting, including diaper changing, when required.

Administrative Duties During Normal School Hours

• Provide supervision and monitoring of students during breaks, lunches, community trips, and assemblies.
• Supervise students passing in corridors during fire drills and assemblies.
• Assist students in situations other than their regular assignments as requested by the teacher.
• Temporary assignment by the principal to additional administrative duties (lunchroom, recess, playground).
• Set up and operate instructional and/or assistive technology equipment under teacher direction.
• Participate in professional development activities per district expectations.
• Perform other general duties as indicated by the Principal, Director of Student Services, and Superintendent.