EL Instructional Paraprofessional

Dickinson Elementary School (PreK-8); Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Grand Rapids Public Schools Dickinson Elementary School (PreK-8) in Grand Rapids, Michigan seeks an EL Paraprofessional to support English Learner students alongside teachers.

The role focuses on reinforcing language concepts, assisting with lessons and activities, and helping scholars build communication skills in a bilingual model.

Starting wage is $17.73 per hour under GRPS, with eligibility for the standard paraprofessional benefits and professional development.

Qualifications

• Two years of college (60 credits) or an associate's degree.
• Passing score on a MDE-approved paraprofessional assessment.
• Ability to work with diverse students and families.

Responsibilities

• Assist in providing lessons and reinforce concepts under teacher supervision.
• Support EL students and participate in professional development.
• Maintain a positive classroom climate and communicate with families.

Skills

Experience working with children

Written communication

Verbal communication

Confidentiality

Team player

Dependable attendance

Education

60 credits or higher

Associate's degree or higher

Passing score on paraprofessional assessment

Job description

Grand Rapids Public Schools Dickinson Elementary School (PreK-8) - Grand Rapids, Michigan Open in Google Maps

EL Instructional Paraprofessional

Grand Rapids Public Schools Dickinson Elementary School (PreK-8) - Grand Rapids, Michigan Open in Google Maps

This job is also posted in Grand Rapids Public School District , and Kent ISD

Job Details

Job ID: 5655446
Application Deadline: Posted until filled
Re-Posted: Apr 24, 2026 4:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: To Be Determined

Job Description

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were written out in this job description.

GRPS MISSION: Our mission is to ensure that all scholars are educated, self-directed and productive members of society.

Paraprofessional – English Learner (EL)

Department: English Language/Cultural Centers/Migrant/Native American

Bargaining Unit: Grand Rapids Public Schools Paraprofessional

Association (GRPSPA)

Wage: According to the collective bargaining agreement

Direct Supervisor: Principal

JOB SUMMARY

The EL Paraprofessional is responsible for working as a team member in providing a quality educational program for assigned scholars by providing additional time for the teacher to plan. The EL Paraprofessional is also responsible for certain non-instructional and concept/skill reinforcement tasks and providing scholars the opportunity for additional adult/scholar relationships.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Essential functions under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include any of the following duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is illustrative only and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by employees in this position. Regular on time and in person attendance is an essential function of this job. Other essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Responsible for actively participating in building activities, meetings, parent conferences, staffing, training, IEP, when appropriate, as determined by the building administration or the assigned certified teacher
• Present lessons to individual scholars or small groups, assisting in all introductions of information and concepts, selection and preparation of materials, establishment of reward systems, as determined by the certified teacher. This includes work outdoors, all year round (all seasons)
• Assist with loading and unloading of buses and recess duty, when necessary
• Responsible for informing the certified teacher of any specific needs or concerns regarding the scholars
• Responsible for carrying through on suggestions, as directed by the teacher
• When needed, assist with medical and grooming needs of scholars.
• Assist in preparing displays of scholar work
• Secure, set up and operate materials and equipment
• Assist teacher in maintaining a positive EL climate
• Interact with co-workers, administration, scholars, parents & the community in positive, supportive and cooperative ways
• Work outside each day for extended periods of time
• Participation in 12 hours of EL Professional Development through the EL Department regarding the following:
  • Develop and understand of our ELs
  • Understand specific duties related to the EL Paraprofessional
  • Acquire a basic understanding of SIOP
  • Develop technicquest on how to fully support the teacher and small group instruction
• Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Education and Experience:

• Must have:
  • completed at least two years of study at an institution of higher education (60 Credits); OR
  • obtained an associate's or higher degree, OR
  • achieved a passing score on a MDE approved ETS paraprofessional assessment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to deal with scholars, parents, staff and community in a tactful and courteous manner
• Experience working with children
• Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills with exceptional organizational abilities
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to information security protocols
• Ability to work in a diverse environment
• Ability to participate as a member of the team

• Consistently demonstrate dependable attendance and punctuality

ADA REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands, work environment factors, and mental functions described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Stands and/or walks during most of the working day. Turns, stoops, climbs, bends, pushes, pulls, reaches for and carries materials and equipment in the performance of tasks. Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 pounds. Must be able to work outside for extended periods (up to the entire eight-hour shift) in all weather conditions. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The noise level in the work environment is usually loud to moderate. Work is performed indoors although there will be required outdoor activities. The employee is directly responsible for the safety, well-being, and work output of scholars.

MENTAL FUNCTIONS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to compare, analyze, communicate both orally and in writing in the English language, copy, coordinate, instruct, compute, synthesize, evaluate, use interpersonal skills, compile, and negotiate.

Non-Discrimination

The Grand Rapids Public Schools will not discriminate against any person based on race, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, height, weight, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran, or military status.

Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations: Assistance with the application process may be requested through the Human Resources Department at [phone] or [e-mail].

I understand and acknowledge the contents of my job description.

Employee Signature Date

Position Type: Full-Time
Salary: $17.73 Per Hour

Job Requirements

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required

Contact Information

• Email: [e-mail]

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