Paraeducator, Student Engagement Candidate Pool

Howard County Public School System; United States; On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

The Howard County Public School System is seeking a Student Engagement Paraeducator (SEP) to assist in implementing academic and social-emotional learning plans. The role involves working closely with students individually and in small groups, supporting teachers in lesson delivery, and maintaining student performance records.

Minimum qualifications include a High School Diploma or GED equivalent, and experience in a K-12 educational setting is preferred. The job offers a dynamic work environment in classrooms and various school settings.

Qualifications

• Experience working with K-12 students.
• Background in education or training related to social-emotional skills.
• Training in Life Space Crisis Intervention (LSCI) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers with lesson plans and instructional materials.
• Provide support to students during computer lab sessions.
• Supervise students during field trips and transitions.

Skills

Communication skills

Confidentiality

Human relations

Technology skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED equivalent

Passing score on the ParaPro Assessment or 48 college credits

Job description

Job Overview

Student Engagement Paraeducator (SEP) assists in implementing academic and social‑emotional growth plans under the supervision of the principal or assistant principal, working directly with students individually or in small groups.

Essential Responsibilities

• Assist teachers in implementing lesson plans and preparing instructional materials and learning centers.
• Work with individual and small groups of students.
• Prepare bulletin boards and keep track of individual student performance.
• Check papers, conduct lunch counts, collect lunch money.
• Operate various office machines and contribute to clerical functions.
• Assist students with toileting, health protocols, and personal care tasks.
• Provide instructional support in computer labs and lab instruction.
• Operate audio‑visual equipment and produce transparencies.
• Participate in faculty discussions, planning, and problem‑solving teams.
• Read, tell, and record stories; schedule parent‑teacher conferences.
• Assist on field trips and supervise students in transit.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, including supervisory roles.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent (official transcript required).
• For Title I schools, a passing score on the ParaPro Assessment or 48 college credits or more from an accredited institution.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with students in a K‑12 setting.
• Background in education or training with students having lagging social‑emotional skills.
• Training in Life Space Crisis Intervention (LSCI) or a similar framework.
• Passing score on the ParaPro Assessment or 48 college credits from an accredited college or university.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Maintain confidentiality regarding student progress.
• Communicate clearly in written and oral forms.
• Remain calm under challenging circumstances.
• Reinforce lesson plans and support instructional goals.
• Follow directions from teachers and collaborate with staff.
• Provide personal attention and assist with classroom instruction.
• Use basic technology and keyboarding skills.
• Demonstrate strong human relations and communication skills.
• Attend professional development sessions during the workday.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work in school buildings, classrooms, community, and outdoor settings under various weather conditions.
• Exposure to high‑pitch or louder verbalizations, bodily fluids, and students with challenging behavior.
• May assist with students exhibiting challenging behaviors and require customized training.
• Must frequently lift or carry 50–75 pounds with assistance.
• Ability to stand, sit, bend, push/pull, walk, run, kneel, twist, squat, crouch, and reach overhead.
• Need visual acuity to read printed materials and monitor student activities; hearing sufficient to engage in conversation.
• Must meet physical examination standards set by the HCPSS medical service.

Equal Opportunity Employer

HCPSS is an equal‑opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on organizational needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications. We welcome applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds and experiences.