Paraeducator – Instructional Prekindergarten

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

Job summary

Ridge Elementary School in Ridge, Maryland is seeking a Paraeducator – Instructional Prekindergarten to join the St. Mary’s County Public Schools. The role is a full-time, ten-month position with salary based on the EASMC-ESP schedule, Range 9 (approximately $27,999–$42,351).

You will assist the classroom teacher, support student learning, and collaborate with administration across Pre-K to Grade 5 as needed. The position emphasizes confidentiality, teamwork, and effective communication.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Associate's degree or CDA certificate is required.
• Five years in an Early Childhood Public School setting before June 30, 2024, with an effective evaluation.

Responsibilities

• Support delivery of developmentally appropriate learning opportunities under the classroom teacher.
• Provide instructional support to students and assist teachers as needed.
• Collaborate with school administration and classroom staff to maintain a safe learning environment.
• May support Pre-K through Grade 5 as needed.

Skills

Confidentiality

Technology proficiency

Team collaboration

Time management

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate's degree or CDA

Five years Early Childhood Public School setting

Job description

Overview

Paraeducator – Instructional Prekindergarten at Ridge Elementary School, Ridge, Maryland, part of St. Mary’s County Public Schools.

Position Details

• Position: Paraeducator – Instructional Prekindergarten
• Location: Ridge Elementary School
• Effective: August 2026
• Term of Employment: Full-time, ten-month position
• Salary: Based on the EASMC-ESP salary schedule for ten-month seven-hour employees — Range 9 (approximately $27,999–$42,351)

Responsibilities

• Work under the direction of the classroom teacher to support delivery of developmentally appropriate learning opportunities.
• Provide instructional support to students and support for teachers as needed.
• Support the instructional needs of the classroom and collaborate with the school administration.
• May be assigned to support any elementary grade level (Pre-K through Grade 5), as needed.

Essential Functions

• 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
• Demonstrate effective organizational and 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 (IRT) to support instructional goals
• Maintain a safe and orderly learning environment
• Assist students with instructional activities and projects; assist in organizing materials
• Meet regularly with the teacher for planning and progress evaluation
• 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 in other school activities
• Assist in family visits as needed
• Support Pre-Kindergarten program dining activities
• Assist in maintaining and updating student records
• Attend to toileting and diapering needs as appropriate
• Prepare learning activities, stations, and materials under the direction of the teacher or IRT
• Reinforce learning with audio-visual aids and other materials
• Maintain neat work and center areas; assist with parent activities
• Attend workshops and training sessions
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Required:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Associate's degree or Child Development Associate (CDA) certificate (documentation uploaded in application)
  • Five years in an Early Childhood Public School setting before June 30, 2024, with an effective evaluation
• Preferred:
  • Related college courses or training
  • Experience working with children
  • Citizenship, residency, or work visa requirement as applicable

Term of Employment: Full-time ten-month position

Salary Grade Range: Based on EASMC-ESP salary schedule for ten-month seven-hour employees - Range 9