Paraeducator 2

The Maryland School for the Blind; Maryland; On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Maryland School for the Blind is seeking a dedicated professional to support students and staff in implementing and facilitating Behavior Intervention Plans and educational programs. The ideal candidate will have an Associate Degree and comprehensive knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Responsibilities include providing support for students with vision loss and other developmental needs. This position requires effective communication skills, the ability to analyze data, and proficiency in technology. This role operates on a school schedule of 38.5 hours per week, Monday through Friday.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Complete relevant specialized training programs including 40 in-person training hours.
• Demonstrate competency in relevant areas.

Responsibilities

• Implement and support instructional components based on ABA.
• Provide instructional and behavioral support to students.
• Assist students with technology and travel skills.

Skills

Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Data collection and analysis

General knowledge of visual impairment and behavioral management

Competency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite

Communication skills

Education

Associate Degree or 48 college credits

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

Computer/laptop

Instructional and therapeutic materials

Job description

SUMMARY

Under the direction of program leadership, with direction from the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), supports students and staff and helps facilitate and support individual Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), instructional interventions, and Individualized Educational Programs (IEPs).

Accountabilities

Essential Functions

• Implements and supports instructional components based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
• Utilizes data collection procedures and assists with protocols for data analysis.
• Provides instructional and behavioral support to students.
• Provides evidence based instructional support and assistance to the BCBA, Behavior Specialist, and team members who are implementing the BIP and instructional interventions for students.
• Supports teachers and other members of the instructional team in preparing instructional and behavioral support materials for students.
• Provides support for students transitioning to other classrooms by modeling, coaching, and providing feedback to the school-based team.
• Collects student-specific data and provides support to others to assist in tracking student progress and maintaining data; this may include entering data into graphing tools and updating graphs.
• Conducts necessary informal assessments (e.g., preference assessments).
• Attends and presents data at relevant meetings.
• Assists with physical behavior management as needed.
• Assists with toileting and hygiene routines as needed.
• Assists students with travel skills and concept development.
• Utilizes augmentative communication devices.
• Uses and assists students with use of computers, iPads, and other forms of technology.
• Works with medically/developmentally/uniquely complex students from ages 5 to 21, with a spectrum of vision loss and additional needs.

Marginal Functions

• Performs additional duties as assigned.

Conditions

Equipment Used

• Computer/laptop, copy machine, printer, walkie‑talkies, instructional and therapeutic material and equipment, adaptive and orthopedic equipment, stopwatch/timers, telephone.

Performance Standard

Must consistently demonstrate competence in all areas of performance set forth by program directors/supervisors.

Work Environment

Multiple indoor and outdoor environments around and off campus, with varying sound, lighting and temperature conditions.

Work Schedule

38.5 daytime hours, Monday through Friday with a half hour unpaid lunch break scheduled each day; flextime within the work week is occasionally required, and additional work hours are infrequently assigned. This position follows an 11‑month school schedule.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge, Skills And General Abilities

• Requires a minimum of an Associate Degree, 48 college credits, or a ParaPro Assessment. Bachelors degree preferred.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must complete all relevant specialized training programs, beginning with 40 in‑person training hours. Staff will be evaluated against an established list of competencies on an annual basis.
• Must demonstrate competency in relevant areas.
• Must demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of computers, Microsoft office, and Google Suite.

After the six months in this position, the employee will have

• General knowledge of: visual impairment/blindness relative to testing and social‑emotional development; behavioral management techniques used with students with multiple disabilities; IDEA regulations and service implications; MSB policies and procedures.
• Basic knowledge of MSDE regulations regarding the provision of psychological services.
• CPR/First Aid Certification.
• Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) Training completed.
• Other similar training as needed.
• EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER M/F -