Paraprofessional

DISABILITY RESOURCE NETWORK INC; Bridgeport (CT); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement plan 401(k) with employer

Health insurance

Dental and Vision insurance

Employer provided long-term disability

Life insurance

Job summary

DISABILITY RESOURCE NETWORK INC is seeking a dedicated Paraprofessional to support high school students with disabilities in a structured, alternative education setting in Bridgeport, CT. The role focuses on instructional support under teachers, implementing IEPs and BIPs, and promoting academic and social-emotional growth.

Full-time, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with a comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, and disability coverage.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree or two years of post-secondary education preferred.
• Experience working with high school students, particularly those with disabilities and/or behavioral challenges.
• Prior experience in alternative education settings or juvenile justice-involved youth is highly desirable.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm and consistent in high-stress situations.
• Commitment to equity, inclusivity, and restorative approaches to discipline.
• Must be able to pass a background check and meet district/state hiring requirements.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct instructional support to students under the direction of the head teacher and/or special education staff.
• Assist in implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).
• Support students in academic, social-emotional, and behavioral development throughout the school day.
• Supervise students in classrooms, hallways, lunchrooms, and during transitions to ensure safety and compliance with school expectations.
• De-escalate challenging behaviors using approved behavior management techniques and trauma-informed practices.
• Foster a supportive, respectful, and structured learning environment.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to district policies and procedures at all times.
• Collaborate effectively with teachers, therapists, social workers, and administrators to meet student needs.
• Provide written or verbal input on student progress and behavior when requested.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Calm under pressure

Trauma-informed care

Restorative practices

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate’s degree or two years post-secondary education

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

30+ days ago Requisition ID: 1021

Salary Range: $18.00 To $20.00 Hourly

We are seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and reliable Paraprofessional to support high school students with disabilities who are often also involved in the juvenile justice system. This position is part of an alternative school program focused on academic progress, social-emotional growth, and restorative behavioral support. The ideal candidate will be flexible, patient, and skilled at building positive relationships with youth facing complex life challenges.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide direct instructional support to students under the direction of the head teacher and/or special education staff.

Assist in implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).

Support students in academic, social-emotional, and behavioral development throughout the school day.

Supervise students in classrooms, hallways, lunchrooms, and during transitions to ensure safety and compliance with school expectations.

De-escalate challenging behaviors using approved behavior management techniques and trauma-informed practices.

Foster a supportive, respectful, and structured learning environment.

Maintain confidentiality and adhere to district policies and procedures at all times.

Collaborate effectively with teachers, therapists, social workers, and administrators to meet student needs.

Provide written or verbal input on student progress and behavior when requested.

Qualifications:

High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s degree or two years of post-secondary education preferred.

Experience working with high school students, particularly those with disabilities and/or behavioral challenges.

Prior experience in alternative education settings or juvenile justice-involved youth is highly desirable.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Ability to remain calm and consistent in high-stress situations.

Commitment to equity, inclusivity, and restorative approaches to discipline.

Must be able to pass a background check and meet district/state hiring requirements.

Working Conditions:

Full-time (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday)

Follows the school district calendar (holidays and summers off) - optional summer employment for the extended school year summer program

Work is performed in a classroom setting, with potential exposure to physically and emotionally demanding situations, as well as accompanying students out into the community.

• Retirement plan 401(k) with employer match
• Health insurance
• Dental and Vision insurance
• Employer provided long-term disability insurance and a portion of life insurance
• Ancillary plans such as voluntary life insurance, accident insurance, etc