Educational Support Professional Sail 1 Program FY 26 (ESP-3) (300693) Job ID 960

Bedford, MA Public Schools; Bedford (MA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Bedford Public Schools is seeking an Educational Support Professional for the Sail 1 Program. This role involves supporting students with Autism Spectrum Disorder through individualized instruction and behavioral programs. The position requires collaboration with teachers and ongoing training, ensuring a supportive learning environment. Candidates should possess strong data analysis skills and an Associate's Degree in a related field is preferred. Salary ranges from $28.18 to $34.64 per hour, annualized for 184 days, with additional benefits available.

Qualifications

• Support students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in a sub-separate classroom.
• Implement individualized academic and behavioral programs.

Responsibilities

• Support classroom routines and reinforce social interaction programs.
• Provide small group or individual instructional support aligned with student goals.

Skills

Data Analysis

Behavioral Support

Collaboration

Adaptability

Education

Associate's Degree in Psychology

Associate's Degree in Education

Tools

Google Sheets

Job description

Educational Support Professional Sail 1 Program FY 26 (ESP-3) (300693) Job ID 960

Position Details

• Position Type: Education Support Professionals/ ESP-3
• Date Posted: 5/6/2025
• Location: District-Wide

Bedford Public Schools invites applications for the position of Educational Support Professional in the Sail 1 Program (ESP-3) FY26.

Description

A SAIL 1 ESP supports students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or related disorders in a sub-separate classroom, implementing individualized academic and behavioral programs. Responsibilities include providing instruction using Applied Behavior Analysis principles, including discrete trial training and naturalistic teaching. The ESP will be trained in de-escalation strategies and data collection on support plans. Supervision and ongoing training are provided by a BCBA and a certified Special Education Teacher.

Note: Five days of specialized training before the school year starts are provided for ESPs serving SAIL 1 students.

Responsibilities

1. Support classroom routines and reinforce social interaction programs like Responsive Classroom, RULER, PBIS, and behavioral support strategies.
2. Supervise and support students during recess, lunch, arrival, dismissal, and field trips, including escorting students and participating in drills.
3. Provide small group or individual instructional support aligned with student goals and plans.
4. Collaborate with teachers to prepare for daily classes and understand learning targets.
5. Assist with academic and behavioral programs, including data collection and implementing behavior plans.
6. Communicate regularly with staff on student progress and challenges.
7. Support learning experiences, focusing on priority students and broader groups.
8. Implement behavior intervention and social skills facilitation across school settings.
9. Assist in crisis intervention, including verbal de-escalation and physical intervention as trained.
10. Adapt to student needs and perform other duties as assigned.

Additional Notes

Assist with tasks like data entry and record maintenance as appropriate for the specific ESP level.

Must Possess the Ability To

• Work under guidance to support student engagement and learning.
• Collect, analyze, and visualize data using tools like Google Sheets.
• Adapt and learn new skills to support various student needs.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Handle unforeseen events effectively.
• Build positive relationships with students, staff, and parents.

Specialty Area

• Passion for working with children/students.
• Knowledge of child development, learning strategies, SEL, de-escalation, and restraint protocols.
• Ability to work with diverse learning styles and collaborate in a team.

Physical and Environmental Demands

Ability to move with students, physical agility, and adherence to safety protocols.

Additional Information

Preferred: Associate's Degree in Psychology, Education, or related field. ESPs are considered Instructional Aides under state law.

Salary and Benefits

In accordance with the Bedford ESP Contract: $28.18 - $34.64/hour, annualized for 184 days, approximately $35,006 - $43,028. Benefits details are available on the district website.

Bedford Public Schools promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in hiring and employment practices.

School Committee Approved: August 8, 2024

Current posting as of 5/13/2025.