Paraeducator Generalist @ Columbia Middle School

Columbia Middle School; Moses Lake (WA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbia Middle School in Moses Lake, WA is seeking a Paraeducator Generalist to support instructional delivery and maintain a safe, engaging learning environment. Under certificated staff guidance, you will assist with lesson implementation, prepare materials, supervise students, and reinforce behavior plans in classrooms and on the playground.

The ideal candidate demonstrates dependability, adaptability, and calm, effective communication.

Qualifications

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must have earned 72 college level credits from an institution of higher education, have a college degree, or be able to pass the Educational Testing Service (ETS) Assessment.
• Previous experience working with pupils in both individual and small group instructional situations.
• Working knowledge of phonics; training and experience using Journeys.

Responsibilities

• Work as part of the teaching team following the lesson plans and guidance of the teacher.
• Help prepare and/or assemble teaching materials as requested by the teacher.
• Assist teachers in supervisory tasks as assigned.
• Assist teachers in administering tests, evaluating, and modifying student work in the context of a lesson.
• Demonstrate ability to proficiently communicate with people using correct oral and written language.
• Help pupils in basic fundamentals of reading, mathematics, writing, and self-help skills.
• Follow and implement detailed behavior management plans.
• Use appropriate interventions in handling student misbehavior.
• Assist with student misbehavior requiring de-escalation techniques up to therapeutic holds.
• Take directions and carry through on own without frequent supervision.
• Demonstrate empathy and awareness of the needs of students.
• Flexible, calm, and patient in trying situations.
• Help students develop acceptable behavior patterns.
• Observe and record student behavior and academic performance.
• Supervise students and maintain a harmonious atmosphere on the playground.
• Supervise movement of children to and from the playground.
• Maintain a constant vigilance for safety, both in how children play and the condition of the play equipment that they use.
• Exercise good judgment.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records as required.
• Enforce school and district policies.
• Maintain good rapport with students and teachers.
• Maintain district assigned email account; read and respond to messages regularly.
• Accept responsibility for assignments and outcomes.
• Work cooperatively with other staff; maintain positive, respectful relationships and engagements.
• Maintain regular attendance.
• Always punctual. If absences are required, informs the supervisor early enough so that normal workflow is not interrupted as well as enters absence in the district absence management system.
• Other such job-related duties as may be assigned.

Skills

Strong communication

Empathy

Dependable

Education

High school diploma

72 college credits / degree

ETS assessment option

Tools

Journeys

Job description

Moses Lake School District 161 Columbia Middle School - Moses Lake, Washington Open in Google Maps

Paraeducator Generalist @ Columbia Middle School

Moses Lake School District 161 Columbia Middle School - Moses Lake, Washington Open in Google Maps

This job is also posted in Moses Lake School District

Job Details

Job ID: 5921599
Application Deadline: Posted until filled
Posted: Sep 10, 2026 7:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Description

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

Classified Salary Range

Benefits Available

PARAEDUCATORGENERALIST

Columbia Middle School

6.50 hrs per day/180 days per year

Shift time is subject to building needs.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Paraeducator plays a vital role in supporting instructional delivery and ensuring a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment for all students. Working under the guidance of certificated staff, this position provides academic and behavioral support to students in both classroom and unstructured settings such as playgrounds. Responsibilities include assisting with lesson implementation, preparing materials, supervising students, reinforcing behavior plans, and helping with academic skill development in areas such as reading, writing, and math. The ideal candidate is dependable, adaptable, and able to manage groups effectively while maintaining a calm, supportive demeanor. This role requires strong communication skills, empathy, and a commitment to continuous professional growth as outlined by Washington State paraeducator standards.

QUALIFICATIONS:

If you do not have the minimum college credits for this position, you may take the Paraeducator Assessment. Complete this FORM if you'd like to be scheduled for the assessment.

• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must have earned 72 college level credits from an institution of higher education, have a college degree, or be able to pass the Educational Testing Service (ETS) Assessment.
• Previous experience working with pupils in both individual and small group instructional situations.
• Working knowledge of phonics; training and experience using Journeys.
• Must have or be willing to obtain and maintain current CPR/First Aid certification.
• Previous experience and/or training working with students in a classroom setting.
• Must have proven ability to complete tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be able to manage large groups of students in an unstructured environment while maintaining a high level of safety.
• Must have proven record of consistent attendance.
• Must be willing to move to other district locations and/or have hours and/or duties reassigned as and enrollment and program needs change.
• Must be willing to respond with compassion to a student needing assistance with personal care, including verbally coaching students trhough such situations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Work as part of the teaching team following the lesson plans and guidance of the teacher.
• Help prepare and/or assemble teaching materials as requested by the teacher.
• Assist teachers in supervisory tasks as assigned.
• Assist teachers in administering tests, evaluating, and modifying student work in the context of a lesson.
• Demonstrate ability to proficiently communicate with people using correct oral and written language.
• Help pupils in basic fundamentals of reading, mathematics, writing, and self-help skills.
• Follow and implement detailed behavior management plans.
• Use appropriate interventions in handling student misbehavior.
• Assist with student misbehavior requiring de-escalation techniques up to therapeutic holds.
• Take directions and carry through on own without frequent supervision.
• Demonstrate empathy and awareness of the needs of students.
• Flexible, calm, and patient in trying situations.
• Help students develop acceptable behavior patterns.
• Observe and record student behavior and academic performance.
• Supervise students and maintain a harmonious atmosphere on the playground.
• Supervise movement of children to and from the playground.
• Maintain a constant vigilance for safety, both in how children play and the condition of the play equipment that they use.
• Exercise good judgment.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records as required.
• Enforce school and district policies.
• Maintain good rapport with students and teachers.
• Maintain district assigned email account; read and respond to messages regularly.
• Accept responsibility for assignments and outcomes.
• Work cooperatively with other staff; maintain positive, respectful relationships and engagements.
• Maintain regular attendance.
• Always punctual. If absences are required, informs the supervisor early enough so that normal workflow is not interrupted as well as enters absence in the district absence management system.
• Other such job-related duties as may be assigned.

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal history clearance through Washington State Patrol and FBI.
• Within the first year of employment, successfully complete the Washington State Fundamental Course of Study for Paraeducators provided by the District, as defined in RCW 28A.413.070, and continue to meet future requirements as mandated by the State.

The Moses Lake School District #161 does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boys Scouts and other designated youth groups. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures may be directed to the school district’s Title IX, Civil Rights, Afffirmative Action, and Equal Opportunity officer, Michelle Musso, 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837, [phone], [e-mail]; OR Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Samantha Burgess, 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837, [phone], [e-mail].

Position Type: Full-Time
Salary: $20.80 to $25.58 Salary Range: Per P.S.E. Contract Schedule

Job Requirements

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required

Contact Information

• Scott Petersen , Principal
• Columbia Middle School
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]