ASD Special Education ParaEducator

GLcomets; Grand Ledge (MI); On-site; USD 27,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Willow Ridge Elementary in Grand Ledge, MI is seeking a dedicated Special Education ParaEducator to support students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This full-time role collaborates with teachers, therapists, and families to implement IEPs and foster independence.

The successful candidate will provide one-on-one support, help with classroom activities, monitor progress, and promote social skills, maintaining confidentiality and upholding school policies.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; Associate’s degree or higher preferred.
• Experience with students with ASD or in a special education setting desirable.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with teachers and specialists.
• Pass background checks as required by school policies.
• Patience and empathy to support students with special needs.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers with instructional activities tailored for students with ASD.
• Provide one-on-one support during classroom activities.
• Help manage classroom behavior and implement positive behavior support strategies.
• Collaborate with special education staff to support IEP goals.
• Assist in preparing and organizing instructional materials and resources.
• Monitor and document student progress, behavior, and engagement.
• Support students during transitions between classes.
• Facilitate social interactions and peer relationships.
• Participate in training and professional development on ASD.
• Maintain confidentiality of student information and adhere to school policies.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Patience & empathy

Team collaboration

Organization

Education

High school diploma

Associate’s degree or higher (education/related field)

Job description

Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join our team at Willow Ridge Elementary as a Special Education ParaEducator for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The ideal candidate will support the educational and emotional needs of students with ASD, fostering a positive learning environment that encourages independence and personal growth. This full-time position requires collaboration with teachers, therapists, and families to implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and support the overall development of each student.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers in implementing instructional activities tailored to the needs of students with ASD, promoting engagement and participation.
• Provide one-on-one support to students during classroom activities, ensuring they understand and complete assignments.
• Help manage classroom behavior and implement positive behavior support strategies to create a safe and respectful learning environment.
• Collaborate with special education staff and related service providers to support the development and execution of IEP goals.
• Assist in the preparation and organization of instructional materials and resources.
• Monitor and document student progress, behavior, and engagement, providing feedback to teachers and other staff as needed.
• Support students during transitions, including arrival, dismissal, and movement between classes or activities.
• Facilitate social interactions and communication among students, promoting social skills and peer relationships.
• Participate in training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge related to special education and ASD.
• Maintain confidentiality of student information and adhere to all school policies and procedures.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; Associate’s degree or higher in education, psychology, or a related field preferred.
• Previous experience working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder or in a special education setting is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of the characteristics and needs of students with ASD.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with students, staff, and families.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and follow instructions from teachers and specialists.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support the learning and development of students with special needs.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Certification in First Aid and CPR is a plus.
• Must pass background checks as required by school district policies.