Generic Posting: Educational Assistant - Special Education (2026-2027 School Year)

Cumberland Valley High School; Mechanicsburg (Cumberland County); On-site; USD 23,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Cumberland Valley School District is seeking an Educational Assistant (EA) I, II, or III for a 7.5-hour day in the Cumberland Valley area. The role adapts support to assigned special education programs, aligning educational strategies with each student’s needs.

Ideal candidates have direct experience with students with special needs and will receive training to support program delivery for students with disabilities in a public school setting.

Qualifications

• Must have a high school diploma; an Associate's degree or higher preferred.
• Direct experience with students with special needs is highly valued.
• Training will be provided to support program delivery for students with disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide instructional support to students and assist with implementation of educational programs.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers to manage activities and support student learning.
• Assist with classroom and building activities to foster a supportive learning environment.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

English fluency

Patience

Education

High school diploma

Associate's degree preferred

Job description

Cumberland Valley School District has an Educational Assistant (EA) I, II, or III position, offers 7.5work hours per day. Individuals selected will have responsibilities that are tailored to the special education programs assigned, ensuring that educational strategies, support services and student development are aligned with the unique needs, backgrounds and learning styles of these students. EA's are compensated at a starting wage of up to $20.60/hr for the 2026-2027 school year, depending on the assignment.

Priority will be given to candidates possessing direct experience with students with special needs.

The EA plays a vital role in fostering a supportive and effective learning environment, ensuring that all students can succeed. This position works closely with classroom teachers and other district employees to provide instructional support, manage classroom/building activities and assist with the implementation of educational programs. Strong interpersonal skills are required and the desire to work interactively with students and staff is essential.

Personal knowledge and work experience with school-aged children and children with cognitive, physical and behavioral disabilities is highly sought. Experience and working knowledge supporting program delivery for students with disabilities in a public school system is highly desired. However, training will be provided.

Candidates should be sensitive to students from a variety of cultures and have patience with students trying to learn a second language. Fluency in English is required while multilingual abilities are a plus.

The successful candidate must have a high school diploma. A two-year Associates Degree or higher is preferred (or the ability to pass a highly-qualified assessment). The employee must take twenty (20) hours of training annually to maintain their Highly Qualified Status. The individual must be able to stand and sit for long periods of time, bend, stretch and lift 50 pounds as well as having corrected hearing and vision within normal ranges.

If hired for employment, the applicant must be able to submit the following:

• Criminal Record Check (less than one year old)
• PA Child Abuse History Clearance (less than one year old)
• FBI Fingerprint Clearance (less than one year old)
• TB Test/Mantoux (less than 3 months old)
• Physical - if applicable (less than 1 year old)

Applicants requiring assistance or needing any accommodations for an employment test or interviewing process are asked to advise us in advance.

Cumberland Valley School District prohibits discrimination, including sexual harassment, on the basis of race, color, age, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, marital status, parenting status, pregnancy or handicap/disability in its activities, programs or employment practices. More information regarding the complaint process and complaint forms can be found at: https://www.cvschools.org/page/non-discrimination-information.