Paraeducator – Instructional Prekindergarten

IMDiversity; Lexington Park (MD); On-site; USD 27,999 - 42,351; Full time

Job summary

IMDiversity is seeking a Paraeducator for St. Mary's County Public Schools in Lexington Park, Maryland. The role involves supporting the delivery of developmentally appropriate learning opportunities for students.

This full-time, ten-month position requires collaboration with classroom teachers and involves assisting students with various instructional activities as well as maintaining a safe learning environment.

Qualifications include a High School Diploma or GED, an Associate’s degree, and a CDA certificate, with five years of experience in early childhood education preferred.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Five years in an Early Childhood Public School before June 30, 2024.
• Experience working with children preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist students with instructional activities.
• Collaborate with classroom teacher to support instructional goals.
• Maintain a safe learning environment.

Skills

Collaboration

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Technology use

Confidentiality

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate’s degree

Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate

Job description

Job Title and Details

Paraeducator – Instructional Prekindergarten

St. Mary's County Public Schools

George Washington Carver Elementary School – Lexington Park, Maryland

Job ID: 5742698

Starting Date: Immediately

Effective Date: August 18, 2026

Job Type: Full-time ten-month position

Nature of Work

The paraeducator will work under the direction of the classroom teacher to support the delivery of developmentally appropriate learning opportunities. The position is a ten-month position; the paraeducator provides instructional support to students and support for teachers as needed. The work is performed under the general direction of the classroom teacher and in collaboration with the school administration. The paraeducator may be assigned to support any elementary grade level (Pre‑Kindergarten through Grade 5), as needed.

Essential Functions

• Professionally relate to and collaborate with co‑workers, students, and community members.
• Understand and maintain confidentiality.
• Use technology effectively to complete tasks.
• Report to work daily and on time.
• Work independently.
• Follow both written and verbal instructions.
• Work under pressure.
• Possess effective organizational skills.
• Possess effective written and oral communication skills.
• Possess knowledge of the programs, policies, and procedures of the St. Mary’s County Public School System.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the classroom teacher or Instructional Resource Teacher and sometimes work independently to support instructional goals.
• Maintain a safe and orderly learning environment.
• Assist students with instructional activities and projects, and assist the classroom teacher in maintaining and organizing materials of instruction.
• Meet regularly with the teacher at a designated time for planning and evaluating student progress.
• Assist in developing learning activities with the teacher or IRT.
• Guide students in working and playing with others.
• Provide escort and assistance to students as necessary.
• Supervise students on trips and other school‑related activities.
• Assist teachers in conducting home visits to families as needed.
• Assist in family‑style eating opportunities provided to students in the Pre‑Kindergarten Program.
• Maintain and update information in student records.
• Attend to toileting and diapering needs of students enrolled in the program.
• Prepare appropriate learning activities, stations, and materials under direction of teacher or IRT.
• Reinforce learning activities with appropriate audio‑visual aids and other materials.
• Assist in maintaining neat work and center areas.
• Plan and conduct activities planned for and with parents.
• Attend workshops and in‑service training sessions.
• Perform other related and non‑related job duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Associate’s degree (documents must be uploaded in application).
• Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate (documents must be uploaded in application).
• Five years in an Early Childhood Public School before June 30, 2024, with effective evaluation.

Preferred:

• Related college courses or training.
• Experience working with children.

Term of Employment

Full-time ten‑month position.

Salary Information

Salary will be based on the EASMC‑ESP salary schedule for ten‑month seven‑hour employees – Range 9: $27,999 to $42,351 per year.

Additional Information

Current benefited staff of SMCPS who submit a timely application and meet the minimum qualifications for the position shall be granted an interview and shall be considered to fill the vacancy prior to external applicants being considered.

Questions regarding your application and/or candidacy should be directed to the Department of Human Resources.