ECLC Paraprofessional 26-27 SY

Early Childhood Learning Center; Kirksville (MO); On-site; USD 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Early Childhood Learning Center in Kirksville, MO seeks a K-12 Special Education Paraprofessional to support students with disabilities under supervision of a certified teacher. You will assist with academics, behavior supports and personal care in a safe environment.

The 9-month contract aligns with the district calendar; starting Aug 24, 2026, with ongoing professional development and collaboration with staff.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Paraprofessional certification must be attained within 6 months of employment through one of the listed options.
• Experience with students or individuals with disabilities preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide instructional assistance to students individually or in small groups.
• Implement accommodations and support strategies per IEPs and BIPs.
• Assist with behavior management using de-escalation techniques and restraint training.
• Assist with personal care tasks such as feeding, toileting, dressing and mobility.
• Supervise students during transitions, meals, recess and special periods.
• Collect and maintain data on student progress and supports.
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists and administrators.
• Attend required professional development and adhere to district policies.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Problem solving

Calm under pressure

Lifting up to 50 pounds

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Paraprofessional certification within 6 months

Job description

ECLC Paraprofessional 26-27 SY

Kirksville MO Early Childhood Learning Center - Kirksville, Missouri Open in Google Maps

This job is also posted in Kirksville MO

Job Details

Job ID: 5651023
Application Deadline: Posted until filled
Posted: Apr 16, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Aug 24, 2026

Job Description

KIRKSVILLE R-III SCHOOL DISTRICT

POSITION TITLE: K-12 Special Education Paraprofessional

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent required. Paraprofessional certification must be attained within 6 months of employment through one of the following options:
• Obtain 60 college credit hours
• ParaPro Assessment through ETS
• Completed the 20HR Substitute Certificate Course
• Experience working with students or individuals with disabilities preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to remain calm and supportive in high-pressure or crisis situations.
• Successful completion of district-approved de-escalation and restraint training.
• Ability to sit, kneel, bend and move to/from the floor.
• Must be able to lift and assist students, which may require lifting up to 50 pounds.

CONTRACT DAYS WORKED: This is a 9-month contracted position, aligned with the district’s academic calendar.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Wage and work calendar to be established by the Board of Education.

REPORTS TO: Building Principal/Special Services Director

JOB GOAL: The Special Education Paraprofessional works under the supervision of a certified special education teacher to provide academic, behavioral and personal support to students with disabilities. This position plays a vital role in fostering a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment, helping students succeed in both general education and specialized classroom settings.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide instructional assistance to students individually or in small groups based on teacher direction and IEP goals.
• Implement accommodations and support strategies as outlined in student IEPs and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).
• Assist in managing student behavior using district-approved de-escalation techniques and, when necessary, restraint procedures in accordance with training.
• Support students with personal care tasks such as feeding, toileting, dressing and mobility.
• Supervise students during non-classroom times (e.g., transitions, lunch, recess, transportation and specials).
• Collect and maintain data on student progress, behavior and supports as directed by teaching staff.
• Foster a safe, respectful and inclusive environment that encourages student growth and independence.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards in all student-related matters.
• Collaborate effectively with teachers, therapists, administrators and other staff members.
• Attend a minimum of 15 hours of professional development for the first year of employment and 10 hours of professional development each year after the first year.
• Understand and adhere to Board policies and procedures.

OTHER JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

* Other duties as assigned. This does not preclude the assignment of additional or supplemental duties. The District reserves the right to modify the assignment as needed to reflect such duties.

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION: Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with the provisions of the Board's Policy on Evaluation on Evaluation of Support Staff.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Requires physical stamina to assist students and respond to dynamic classroom needs.
• May involve exposure to students who display challenging behaviors.
• Work is performed in classrooms, hallways, playgrounds and other school environments.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS:

* Duties performed typically in district settings to include the cafeteria, gym, recreational areas and other assigned areas.

* Physical demands can include but are not limited to: Exerts up to 40 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 lbs. of force frequently, and/or up to 10 lbs. of force constantly to move objects including equipment such as audio-visual.

* Frequent walking, standing, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, and other limited physical activities are required.

* Mental demands can include but are not limited to: Comparing, copying, computing, compiling, analyzing, coordinating, and synthesizing.

HIRING AND EMPLOYMENT COMPLIANCE:

The district's hiring procedures will comply with all federal and state laws, including laws prohibiting discrimination. The district is an equal opportunity employer and hires only citizens of the United States and persons who are legally authorized to work in the United States. The Kirksville R-III School District will enroll and actively participate in a federal work authorization program in accordance with law.

See district policy A?

Adoption Date: November 12, 2025

Position Type: Full-Time
Salary: $16.85 Per Hour