Pre-K Paraeducator — Smart Start Grant (Early Learning)

Wethersfield Public Schools; Wethersfield (CT); On-site; USD 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Wethersfield Public Schools in Wethersfield, CT, seeks a Paraeducator for the Pre-K classroom. This 10-month, 35-hour week position supports the lead teacher with a safe, play-based learning environment for young children.

The role emphasizes helping students with routines, social-emotional development, and early literacy through small-group activities and guided practice, in alignment with early childhood best practices and CT standards.

Qualifications

• Hold an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field, have completed a minimum of 60 college credit hours, or have completed the ParaPro Assessment; Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood or Child Development preferred

Responsibilities

• Support students in following daily Pre‑K routines such as arrival, choice time/play‑based centers, snack, cleanup, and dismissal while promoting independence
• Assist with smooth transitions between activities and school spaces by providing visual, verbal, and physical prompts
• Model and reinforce social‑emotional development aligned with best practices, including turn-taking, cooperative play, conflict resolution, and positive peer interactions
• Help students develop self‑regulation by implementing calming strategies, sensory supports, and proactive behavior prompts
• Participate in professional learning related to early childhood development and grant guidelines
• Provide early literacy and language support, including phonological awareness, oral language development, and interactive story reading
• Assist with early learning tasks across domains by supporting play‑based learning, guided practice, and small‑group activities
• Facilitate purposeful play and learning centers by encouraging exploration, problem‑solving, and language use during child‑initiated activities
• Encourage independence with self‑help skills such as toileting, handwashing, outerwear management, and organizing personal cubbies
• Assist teacher with observing and collecting observational data on student progress
• Interact positively with staff and students
• Assist with recess, supervision, restroom breaks, emergency drills, assemblies, field trips, etc.
• Maintain the strictest confidence concerning personnel, students, and operational concerns
• Promote good public relations by professional appearance, attitude, and conversation
• Report all cases of suspected child abuse to appropriate school personnel and proper government authority
• Perform other relevant duties as assigned by certified staff, Principal, and/or other Administrators

Skills

Preschool experience

Educational setting experience

Interpersonal skills

Education

Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field

60 college credit hours

ParaPro Assessment

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood or Child Development preferred

Job description

Wethersfield Public Schools in Wethersfield, CT, seeks a Paraeducator for the Pre-K classroom. This 10-month, 35-hour week position supports the lead teacher with a safe, play-based learning environment for young children.

The role emphasizes helping students with routines, social-emotional development, and early literacy through small-group activities and guided practice, in alignment with early childhood best practices and CT standards.