Autism Support Specialist – Self-Contained Classroom

Operation Breakthrough; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 26,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Operation Breakthrough in Kansas City, MO, seeks an Autism Paraprofessional for Breakthrough Academy to support students with autism in a self-contained classroom. You will work closely with the special education teacher to implement individualized instruction, accommodations, and progress toward IEP goals.

The role emphasizes patience, empathy, and strong observation skills to help students access learning, communicate their needs, and participate in school activities with increasing

Qualifications

• Experience in supporting students with autism or related needs.
• Ability to follow individualized student plans and safety procedures.
• Strong observation and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn evidence-based practices for autism support.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized support to students in the self-contained classroom and other school settings.
• Collaborate with the special education teacher to implement IEP-based accommodations and supports.
• Reinforce academic, communication, social-emotional, behavioral, and functional skills.
• Support students in participating in classroom lessons, group activities, and routines.
• Use strategies like visual schedules and prompting as directed by the teacher.
• Assist students with different communication methods (verbal, AAC, pictures).
• Help students develop functional communication and independence.
• Provide appropriate prompting and gradually reduce support as independence grows.
• Support emotional and sensory regulation strategies.
• Implement behavior-support strategies under supervision.
• Maintain a structured, safe classroom environment.
• Assist with transitions and daily living activities if needed.

Skills

Oral & Written Comm

Patience & Empathy

Active Listening

Emotional Regulation

Growth Mindset

Autism Experience

Conscious Discipline

Education

Para & Sub Certificate

Tools

Conscious Discipline

Job description

Operation Breakthrough in Kansas City, MO, seeks an Autism Paraprofessional for Breakthrough Academy to support students with autism in a self-contained classroom. You will work closely with the special education teacher to implement individualized instruction, accommodations, and progress toward IEP goals.

The role emphasizes patience, empathy, and strong observation skills to help students access learning, communicate their needs, and participate in school activities with increasing