Para-Educator | Des Moines Prep

Des Moines Prep; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 21,593 - 30,754; Full time

Job summary

A new public charter school in Des Moines seeks a Para Educator to support special education students and enhance their learning experience. The ideal candidate will assist with Individual Education Plans and foster student engagement while collaborating with teachers and families. This role offers a competitive salary of $19/hour and the opportunity to shape the educational journey of students in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of experience working with students with special education needs preferred.
• Proven track record of student achievement results.
• Open to feedback and committed to continuously improving.
• Excited to join a founding team and shape the future of the arts at Des Moines Prep.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the educational and social development of students under the direction of the classroom teacher.
• Support students with emotional or behavior concerns and assist them in developing appropriate social skills.
• Work closely with fellow teachers and school leadership to align curriculum, assessment, and instructional strategies.
• Communicate regularly with families about student progress.

Skills

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft PowerPoint

Microsoft Outlook

Organizational skills

Time management

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Completion of an approved paraeducator certification program

Verification of high school completion or equivalent

Job description

Des Moines Prep is a new growing public charter school in downtown Des Moines committed to achieving exceptional outcomes for students: where they own and drive their learning and love their school experience. Our model combines rigorous college preparatory academics and a robust student-centered approach to instruction. We believe students learn best when they are known well, challenged deeply, and supported fully.

Des Moines Prep opened in 2025 and serves grades 8–9, expanding to serve grades 7–12 in the coming years. Our school emphasizes agency, purpose, and preparation for the future, giving students opportunities to explore college and career pathways and pursue their ambitions in a supportive, close-knit environment.

About the Role: Para Educator

Guided by the Special Education Teacher and Principal, the Special Education Paraprofessional plays a key role in supporting the academic growth and character development of scholars receiving special education services. Assigned to a specific classroom or grade level, the paraprofessional will collaborate closely with students, families, and school leadership to strengthen instructional support and classroom management skills tailored to individual student needs.

Instruction Delivery & Curriculum Development (70%)

• Assist in the educational and social development of students under the direction and guidance of the classroom teacher.
• Assist in the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for the students and monitor their progress.
• Provide support for individual students inside and outside the classroom to enable them to fully participate in activities.
• Assist in maintaining the classroom, organization of data and materials as directed by the teacher.
• Establish a welcoming, organized, and inspiring classroom environment.

Student Engagement & Support (20%)

• Support students with emotional or behavior concerns and assist them in developing appropriate social skills.
• Build strong relationships with students, fostering a culture of high expectations, accountability, and support.
• Support in providing differentiated instruction and targeted interventions to ensure all students succeed, including students reading below grade level.

Collaboration & Professional Growth (5%)

• Work closely with fellow teachers and school leadership to align curriculum, assessment, and instructional strategies.
• Participate in school-wide professional development to continuously refine instructional practice, including regular data and assessment reflection cycles.
• Engage in feedback cycles with the Dean of Academics and Principal to improve teaching effectiveness.

Family & Community Engagement (5%)

• Communicate regularly with families about student progress, celebrating successes and addressing challenges proactively.
• Participate in school events, family conferences, and outreach efforts to build strong relationships with families and the community.

Ideal Candidate Experiences

• Qualified candidates must have the following:
• Completion of an approved paraeducator certification program
• Verification of high school completion or equivalent
• 1-3 years of experience working with students with special education needs is preferred.
• Strong skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Proven track record of student achievement results.
• Strong organization, planning, and time management skills.
• Open to feedback and committed to continuously improving.
• Excited to join a founding team and shape the future of the arts at Des Moines Prep.
• Committed to Des Moines Prep’s mission of excellence and joy for students, staff, and families.
• Highly organized and flexible in a fast-paced school setting.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Salary is currently budgeted in a range competitive with local district expectations. The role would pay $19/hour.

Non-Discrimination Statement

Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.