Instructional Support Specialist (paraprofessional) Lincoln School

Young World Physical Education; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Young World Physical Education is seeking an Instructional Support Specialist for Lincoln School in Grand Rapids, Michigan, starting August 18, 2026. This position focuses on assisting students in their educational and social development, working directly with special education teachers and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

The ideal candidate should demonstrate dependability, possess behavior management skills, and meet educational requirements. A chauffeur license and the ability to lift 40-60 lbs. are needed for the role.

Qualifications

• Must have completed at least 2 years of study at an institution of higher education, or hold an associate’s or higher degree.
• Current CPR certification or willingness to obtain it.
• Ability to lift 40-60 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the educational and social development of students.
• Implement Individualized Education Programs and monitor student progress.
• Support students with emotional and behavioral concerns.

Skills

Dependability

Behavior management skills

Ability to supervise students

Effective communication

Education

Completed at least 2 years of higher education or higher degree

Current CPR certification or willingness to obtain

Job description

Starting Date: Aug 18, 2026

Instructional Support Specialist – Lincoln School

Classification: KISSA

Reports to and Evaluated By: Principal/Administrator of Lincoln School

Terms of Employment: 182 day position subject to all rules and regulations covering classified personnel. (7.25 hours per day)

Positions Supervised: None

BROAD STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Instructional Support Specialists work under the overall supervisor of the Principal/Administrator of the building with direct supervision provided by the special education teacher. They provide direct instructional support alongside the classroom teacher in the areas determined by students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEP). Duties vary depending on the age of students served and the nature and severity of the students’ disabilities.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in the educational and social development of students under the direction and guidance of classroom teachers.
• Assist in the implementation of Individualized Education Programs for students and monitor their progress.
• Provide support for individual students inside and outside the classroom to enable them to fully participate in activities.
• Work with related services staff such as speech language pathologists, school social workers, occupational therapists, and physical therapists.
• Assist classroom teachers with maintaining student records.
• Support students with emotional or behavior concerns and assist them in developing appropriate social skills.
• Support the management of challenging behaviors.
• Provide assistance with feeding and toileting.
• Assist students with medical needs including, but not limited to, Diastat and CPR.
• Supervise students in both classroom and community settings.
• Collect and report data through the special education student management system (PowerSchool Special Education).
• Assist in making instructional materials for the students.
• Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Must meet one of the following: completed at least 2 years of study at an institution of higher education OR obtained an associate’s or higher degree OR high school graduate.
• Current CPR certification or willingness to obtain CPR certificates and CPI training.
• Demonstrated dependability and promptness.
• Evidence of skills with behavior management.
• Understanding, patient, warm, and receptive attitude toward students.
• Ability to assume responsibility for supervising students on an independent basis.
• Ability to maintain cooperative working relationships with students, staff, parents, and the general public while maintaining student confidentiality.
• Must be able to lift 40-60 lbs.
• Chauffeur license required (or willingness to obtain) with clean driving record.
• Must pass a criminal background check as required by School Safety Legislation.
• Willingness to work as part of a team of professionals.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.