Paraeducator: Special Needs Instruction & Support

Tacoma Public Schools (WA); Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 42,000; Part time

Job summary

Tacoma Public Schools is seeking a Paraeducator to support students with disabilities, under general supervision, starting November 2026. The role is on-campus, 0.875 FTE, 7 hours per day with a 30-minute lunch, and uses a salary level PA4 with pay steps based on education attainment.

Requires 72 college credits or a passing ParaPro test; AA or BA degrees affect pay levels. Comprehensive benefits are provided through the district.

Qualifications

• Completion of the General Paraeducator Certificate or district-approved equivalent.
• 28 hours of Training on the Fundamental Course of Study within 4–6 months of hire.
• Paraeducator assists certificated teachers in instructional and personal care tasks.

Responsibilities

• Provide instruction to students individually or in small groups as directed by the teacher.
• Assist with activities of daily living and personal care needs; monitor safety.
• Maintain data on student progress and communicate with teachers and parents as assigned.
• Support students with disabilities and adapt materials as needed.
• Assist in classroom management and behavior support per district guidelines.

Skills

Student support

Instructional assistance

Education

72 college credits

ParaPro Test

AA degree

BA or higher degree

Job description

Tacoma Public Schools is seeking a Paraeducator to support students with disabilities, under general supervision, starting November 2026. The role is on-campus, 0.875 FTE, 7 hours per day with a 30-minute lunch, and uses a salary level PA4 with pay steps based on education attainment.

Requires 72 college credits or a passing ParaPro test; AA or BA degrees affect pay levels. Comprehensive benefits are provided through the district.