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

Mastery PA; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); Hybrid; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

403(b) retirement plan (5% match)

New Jersey Pension Plan enrollment for

Employee Assistance Program

Mental health & counseling programs

Annual Professional Development Fund

Retailers & services discounts

Health Advocate Helpdesk

Job summary

Mastery PA in Philadelphia is seeking a Paraprofessional to support student achievement through individualized and small-group instruction. Under the lead teacher, you will assist with instruction, behavior management, and daily classroom tasks to foster an inclusive learning environment.

You will collaborate with educators and therapists, support personal care tasks when needed, and participate in ongoing professional development and training within a model urban school district.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of current special education methodologies.
• Strong instructional skills and ability to engage students.
• Professionalism, reliability, and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized and small-group support to promote academic and social-emotional growth.
• Assist with instruction, behavior management, and daily classroom operations.
• Support students in various school environments including classroom, lunch, and play areas.

Skills

Special education methods

Instructional skills

Professionalism & collaboration

Multi-tasking

Problem solving

Education

Associate degree or 60 credits (NJ) / 48 credits (PA) or ParaPro score

Job description

About Mastery

Founded in 2001, Mastery Schools is a public charter network of 23 K-12 schools in Philadelphia and Camden, serving more than 14,000 students.

At Mastery, we’re on a mission to provide all students with the academic and personal skills they need to succeed after graduation and pursue their dreams. Student achievement is not just a goal for our organization; it's the reason we exist, and every member of our team is dedicated to securing student success. We are also committed to pursuing equity, actively disrupting systemic racism, and addressing the disparities that limit our students' choices.

Our culture is built on respect, service, and the belief that the success of our students, their families, and the communities we serve will help us achieve our mission. We foster a positive, open, and inclusive environment where honesty, humor, and continuous improvement are celebrated.

Join us in creating a model urban school district that serves all students with excellence. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

The 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.

• 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.

Mastery's Benefits Package

We offer a full benefits program and opportunities for professional growth.

• 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
• Discounts and perks at a myriad of retailers, travel organizations, insurance providers, and so much more
• Access to the Health Advocate Helpdesk to help you navigate various benefits‑related topics

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background.

Mastery may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications.