Paraprofessional 1- Early Childhood Special Education

Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools; Kansas City (KS); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools is seeking a Paraprofessional 1 for Early Childhood Special Education. This role involves supporting students with special needs, assisting teachers, and ensuring a safe learning environment. Ideal candidates will have a high school diploma and relevant experience, with strong communication and organizational skills. Join a diverse team dedicated to educational excellence.

Qualifications

• Completion of 48 hours at an institution of higher education or an associate's degree or higher.
• Pass a state-approved assessment (e.g., Workkeys, ParaPro).

Responsibilities

• Supports the instructional program by assisting the Lead Teacher.
• Implements instructional plans and monitors student behavior.
• Communicates with staff and parents to evaluate progress.

Skills

Effective communication

Organization

Problem-solving

Technical document interpretation

Report writing

Education

High school diploma or GED

48 hours at an institution of higher education

Associate's degree or higher

Job description

Paraprofessional 1- Early Childhood Special Education

Join to apply for the Paraprofessional 1- Early Childhood Special Education role at Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools

Job Overview

Title: Paraprofessional 1 - Early Childhood Special Education
Location: Earl Watson

Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools (KCKPS) is a nationally recognized urban school district serving approximately 22,000 students with over 60 languages spoken. The district includes Sumner Academy, ranked #6 nationally among high schools and #1 in Kansas according to US News rankings. With Head Start/preschools, 28 elementary schools, 7 middle schools, and 5 college and career academies/high schools, it is the fifth largest district in Kansas. The student population is diverse, with approximately 56% Hispanic, 24% African American, 9% White, and 6% Asian. The district employs around 4,000 staff, including over 1,800 teachers.

Job Goal

The Paraprofessional 1 supports the instructional program by assisting the Lead Teacher in supervising, caring for, and instructing students with special needs in various classroom settings. Responsibilities include implementing instructional plans, monitoring student behavior, and communicating with school personnel.

Essential Functions

• Adapts classroom activities and materials under the teacher’s guidance to support students across different environments.
• Assists in administering tests, homework, and make-up work.
• Supports medically fragile or physically disabled students with personal hygiene needs.
• Communicates with staff and parents to evaluate progress and implement IEP objectives.
• Implements behavioral plans for students with behavioral or other special needs.
• Follows lesson plans created by teachers.
• Maintains instructional materials.
• Monitors students during various activities to ensure safety and a positive learning environment.
• Provides instruction in individual and group activities to reinforce learning and support IEP plans.
• Attends meetings and training sessions.
• Administers first aid or medical assistance as directed by healthcare professionals.
• Performs other duties as assigned to ensure effective functioning of the work unit.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Completion of 48 hours at an institution of higher education, or an associate's degree or higher.
• Pass a state-approved assessment (e.g., Workkeys, ParaPro, or Para Educator). If not available, KCKPS offers an assessment test.

Preferred Experience

Relevant job-related experience is preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Effective communication and organization skills.
• Ability to solve practical problems and interpret instructions.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional and technical documents.
• Ability to write reports and communicate effectively.
• Physical ability to perform job duties, including sitting, walking, standing, and visual tasks.

Work Environment & Terms

The environment is typically loud, with a focus on student safety. The role is part-time, 186 days, at salary Level 7, classified as hourly and non-exempt. Reports to the Principal and performance is evaluated per district policy.

Equal Opportunity Employment

KCKPS is an equal opportunity employer, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, and other protected statuses. For Title IX inquiries, contact the district compliance coordinator at the provided address and contact info.