Early Childhood Special Education Assistant

Young World Physical Education

Saint Louis Park (MN)

On-site

USD 30,720 - 39,220

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Health and Dental Insurance

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Job summary

Young World Physical Education is seeking an Early Childhood Special Education Assistant based in Saint Louis Park, Minnesota. This vital role involves supporting students with special needs, assisting them in classroom activities and daily living skills under the guidance of a special education teacher.

The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma and experience working with children, especially those with special needs. A comprehensive benefits package is provided for employees working more than 20 hours per week.

Qualifications

Basic principles and practices of special education, including IEPs and individualized instruction.
Working with students with various special needs in one-on-one and small-group settings.
Ability to monitor and report on student progress and behavior.

Responsibilities

Assist students with special needs under the direction of a special education teacher.
Implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and provide support in academic tasks.
Support students in developing social, communication, and life skills.

Skills

Special education principles

Behavioral management strategies

Child development

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Post-secondary coursework in special education

Job description

Early Childhood Special Education Assistant

Saint Louis Park Independent School District 283 CEN-ECSE - St. Louis Park, Minnesota

Job Details

Job ID: 5743935

Application Deadline: Jun 30, 2026 11:59 PM (Central Standard Time)

Posted: May 28, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Aug 17, 2026

Job Description

Title: PARA 5-Special Education Assistant

DBM Classification: B22 /Class 5

Department: Special Education

Salary Range: $22.30 - $28.47

Employee Group: EM Spark

Prepared Date: May 2026

Reports to: Building Admin

FTE/FLSA Status: 0.78FTE |10-Months | Non-Exempt

Summary of Responsibilities (4 Positions)

The Early Childhood Special Education Assistant provides support to students with special needs under the direction of a special education teacher. This role involves assisting with classroom activities, implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), and providing one‑on‑one or small‑group instruction. The Assistant helps students develop academic, social, and behavioral skills, ensuring they can participate fully in the learning process. Additionally, the Assistant may assist with daily living activities, monitor student progress, and support teachers in adapting materials and lessons to meet students’ specific needs. The goal is to foster an inclusive, supportive learning environment that meets the diverse needs of all students.

Duties and Responsibilities

Assist students with special needs in the classroom by providing one‑on‑one or small‑group support during lessons, activities, and instruction.
Help implement and follow students’ Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) under the guidance of the special education teacher.
Provide support with academic tasks such as reading, writing, math, and other subjects based on students' needs.
Assist in managing student behavior and implementing behavioral strategies outlined in IEPs or individual behavior plans.
Support students in developing social, communication, and life skills, fostering independence when possible.
Provide assistance with daily living activities, including eating, dressing, and personal hygiene, if required.
Monitor student progress, record observations, and report information on students' academic, behavioral, and social development.
Adapt and modify classroom materials and activities to meet the specific needs of students.
Support students during transitions between classes, lunch, and recess, ensuring their safety and well‑being.
Assist the teacher in maintaining an inclusive, positive, and supportive classroom environment for all students.
Collaborate with the special education team, including teachers, therapists, and administrators, to ensure students receive the necessary support.
Help with classroom management and supervise students during activities such as recess, lunch, and field trips.
Participate in meetings and training sessions to develop strategies for improving student outcomes and understanding special education practices.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the educational and personal development of students.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Basic principles and practices of special education, including IEPs and individualized instruction.
Different types of disabilities and their impact on learning and behavior.
Behavioral management strategies and techniques used with students with special needs.
School policies and procedures, including those related to student safety, confidentiality, and classroom management.
Basic child development and learning strategies.
First aid and emergency procedures, including CPR, if required by the district.
Working with students with a variety of special needs in both one‑on‑one and small‑group settings.
Implementing IEP goals and objectives effectively under the direction of the teacher.
Using adaptive technology or materials to support students' learning and participation.
Communicating clearly and effectively with students, teachers, and parents.
Managing behavior in the classroom and using positive reinforcement techniques.
Providing support for daily living activities, including feeding, personal hygiene, and mobility assistance.
Recording and reporting observations of student progress and behavior in an organized manner.
Adapting instructional strategies and materials to meet the unique needs of each student.
Working collaboratively with teachers, therapists, and other staff to support students' learning and development.
Maintaining patience, empathy, and a positive attitude when working with students with special needs.
Remaining calm and professional in emotionally charged or challenging situations.
Monitoring and supporting students during classroom activities, transitions, and special events.
Fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.
Supporting students in building social, communication, and self‑help skills.
Following instructions and adhering to established educational practices, policies, and guidelines.

Physical Demands

Standing and walking for extended periods while assisting students in the classroom and on school grounds.
Ability to move quickly and assist students during transitions, emergency situations, or while providing support throughout the school.
May need to lift or assist in lifting students, carry or move equipment, materials, or assist with mobility needs (up to 30 pounds).
Required to bend, kneel, or reach to assist students with daily activities, adapt materials, or address needs.
May need to provide hands‑on assistance with personal care tasks such as feeding, toileting, or positioning students with mobility impairments.
Ability to maintain energy and focus throughout the day, including assisting with classroom activities and managing students during breaks and recess.
Ability to work in varying conditions, including assisting students during physical activities or on field trips.
Use of hands for handling instructional materials, assisting students with tasks, and operating adaptive technologies.

Work Environment

Primary work in the classroom with students who have special needs, providing direct support in an instructional environment.
Occasionally assist students outside the classroom, including during recess, lunch, or school events.
Work closely with special education teachers, other staff, and therapists to implement individualized plans and support students' needs.
Interact with students who may have a wide range of disabilities, including physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral challenges.
Requires patience, empathy, and a calm demeanor to manage routine and potentially challenging situations.
Dynamic pace that varies depending on the needs of the students, requiring adaptability and quick responses to changes or new challenges.
Inclusive school setting where the goal is to provide a safe and supportive space for students with special needs to thrive alongside peers.

Education and/or Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required. Additional post‑secondary coursework in special education, child development, or related fields is preferred.
Applicants must meet one of the following: two years of college credits through an accredited institution; an Associate's Degree or higher; passing score on an approved formal academic assessment.
Previous experience working with children, particularly those with special needs, is highly preferred. Experience in a classroom or educational setting is a plus.
Training in first aid, CPR, or behavioral management techniques preferred.
Certifications: Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) will be provided.

Benefit Information

St. Louis Park Schools provides a comprehensive benefits package for employees working 20 or more hours per week. Key benefits include:

Health and Dental Insurance
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for medical and dependent care expenses
Life Insurance
Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
Short‑ and Long‑Term Disability Insurance

The cost of benefits varies based on the employee group and full‑time equivalent (FTE) status. For detailed information, refer to the applicable group or bargaining unit contract.

Job Requirements