Classroom Assistant Paraprofessional (Part-Time) - 2026/2027 School Year

Mastery Schools; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 31,064 - 43,614; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

403(b) retirement plan

Employee Assistance Program

Mental health and counseling programs

Professional Development Fund

Job summary

Mastery Schools is looking for a Paraprofessional in Philadelphia to support student achievement by providing individualized assistance. Responsibilities include reinforcing instruction, managing student behavior, and assisting with personal care tasks.

The position offers a signing bonus of $500, hourly rates from $22.55 to $31.66 based on education and experience, with part-time hours totaling 29 per week, Monday to Friday. A full benefits program and opportunities for professional growth are also provided.

Qualifications

• Ability to apply current special education methodologies and techniques.
• Experience in a school setting or working with students receiving special education services is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support student learning by reinforcing instruction and assisting small-group interventions.
• Manage student behavior positively across all school settings.
• Assist with personal care tasks respectfully as needed.

Skills

Knowledge of special education methodologies

Strong instructional skills

Professionalism and reliability

Ability to manage multiple responsibilities

Problem-solving ability

Education

Associate’s degree or at least 60 college credits (NJ) / 48 college credits (PA)

Job description

Paraprofessional Opportunity

The Paraprofessional plays a vital role in fostering student achievement by providing individualized and small‑group support to promote academic and social‑emotional growth. Under the direction of the lead classroom teacher, the Paraprofessional assists with instruction, behavior management, and daily classroom operations. Responsibilities also include supporting students’ needs across various school environments, including classrooms, lunch, and play areas. Additionally, the Paraprofessional helps with personal care tasks as needed to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Support student learning by reinforcing instruction and assisting with small‑group interventions.
• Help manage student behavior positively and proactively across all school settings, including inclusion classes, lunch, and cooperative play.
• Assist with personal care tasks (e.g., feeding, toileting, hygiene) in a respectful and dignified manner.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment, including sanitizing materials and ensuring hygiene best practices.
• Provide hands‑on assistance with classroom activities, including setting up learning materials and supporting differentiated instruction.
• Monitor and document student progress as directed by the lead teacher.
• Uphold confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism in all interactions.
• Collaborate with educators, therapists, and support staff to promote student success.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training.
• Perform other duties as assigned that support student learning and classroom operations, as directed by the lead teacher or school leadership.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of and ability to apply relevant current special education methodologies and techniques.
• Strong instructional skills, including the ability to engage and motivate students.
• Professionalism, reliability, and a collaborative mindset.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast‑paced educational setting.
• Problem‑solving ability and a positive attitude.

Education and Experience

• Associate’s degree or at least 60 college credits (NJ) / 48 college credits (PA), or a passing ParaPro score required.
• Experience in a school setting or working with students receiving special education services is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• This role may involve physical activities such as assisting students in a classroom setting, moving classroom materials, and physically supporting students with mobility needs. Reasonable accommodations will be made as needed.

Salary and Bonus Information

• This role is eligible for a $500 signing bonus.
• New specialized services classroom assistants start at an hourly rate of $22.55 with Mastery offering up to $26.63, based on education and experience. Hourly rates range from $22.55 to $31.66, with growth opportunities as your career progresses.
• This is a part‑time role where you will work a total of 29 hours/week, Monday‑Friday.

Benefits

We offer a full benefits program and opportunities for professional growth. Some of our most popular benefits include our 403(b) retirement plan for PA employees (with a 5% match from Mastery for full‑time employees), enrollment in the State of New Jersey Pension Plan for NJ employees, a robust Employee Assistance Program, mental health and counseling programs, an annual Professional Development Fund, and discounts and perks at a myriad of retailers, travel organizations, insurance providers, and more, as well as access to the HealthAdvocate Helpdesk to help you navigate various benefits‑related topics.