Special Education Assistant I

Applitrack; Elk River (MN); On-site; USD 29,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Elk River Area ISD 728 is seeking a dedicated Special Education Paraprofessional for the Focus Program at VandenBerge Middle School for the 2026-2027 school year. The position runs 7:15am-2:30pm, 10 months, with a starting hourly rate of $22.08.

You will collaborate with Special Education Teachers to support students with diverse needs in a safe, inclusive environment, delivering individualized or small-group instruction and tracking progress.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must meet Minnesota ParaPro requirements (e.g., Associate degree, 60 college credits, or ParaPro passing score).
• Experience with children, especially those with special needs, is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide instructional support to lead teacher with IEP-based instruction.
• Support student engagement in general and special education settings.
• Assist in implementing behavior intervention plans and de-escalation strategies.
• Assist in data collection and charting student progress.
• Assist students with daily living activities as needed.
• Prepare instructional materials and maintain a welcoming classroom environment.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Discretion/confidentiality

Patience

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Minnesota ParaPro requirements

Job description

Special Education Assistant I (Setting IV Focus Program located at Vandenberg Middle School - 6.75 hours per day) JobID: 19298

Join Our Team at Elk River Area ISD 728!

Are you ready to educate, inspire, and empower diverse learners?

Come make a difference at Elk River Area ISD 728, the eighth-largest school district in the state! We are a rapidly growing, forward-thinking district dedicated to shaping our students' futures so they can accomplish their dreams and contribute positively to our local and global communities.

Why choose ISD 728?

• A Culture of Excellence: Be part of a winning team! Our district boasts an impressive 89% graduation rate—outpacing the state average by more than 4 percentage points. Our students consistently achieve greatness, from advancing in the National Civics Bee to winning big at the Minnesota State Science Excellence Fair.
• Unprecedented Growth & Innovation: As our community continues to grow, so do our opportunities. We are actively expanding our learning spaces, Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, and targeted student services to meet the needs of our dynamic district.
• A Role for Everyone: Whether you are an experienced educator or looking to support our schools in other vital ways, we have a place for you! We are actively hiring across multiple departments, including Teachers, Administrative and Classroom Assistants, Summer Special Education Assistants, Custodial Grounds, Food Service, and EdVenture Club Child Care professionals.

Help us build strong schools and strong communities. Explore our current openings and join us in making a meaningful impact today!

Job Overview

ISD 728 is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Special Education Paraprofessional to join our Setting IV program Team for the 2026-2027 school year. The primary location for this position is at the Focus Program which is located within VandenBerge Middle School. Position hours are 7:15am-2:30pm. In this role, you will work closely with Special Education Teachers to support the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth of students with diverse learning needs. The ideal candidate is patient, adaptable, and passionate about helping every student reach their full potential in a safe and inclusive environment.

Effective Date of Employment

2026-2027 school year (immediate opening)

Schedule

10 month calendar

Salary

starts at $22.08 per hour

Key Responsibilities

• Instructional Support: Assist the lead teacher in delivering individualized or small-group instruction based on students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Student Engagement: Help keep students focused and engaged in general education and special education classroom settings.
• Behavioral Support: Implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and assist in de-escalating challenging behaviors using district-approved techniques.
• Data Collection: Assist teachers in observing, recording, and charting students' behavioural and academic progress.
• Personal Care (if applicable): Assist students with physical or developmental disabilities with daily living activities, which may include feeding, mobility, and personal hygiene.
• Classroom Management: Help prepare instructional materials, set up assistive technology, and maintain an organized, welcoming classroom environment.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must meet State of Minnesota Paraprofessional requirements (e.g., an Associate's degree, 60 college credits, or a passing score on the ParaPro Assessment).
• Previous experience working with children, especially those with special needs, is highly preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain extreme confidentiality regarding student records and needs.
• Patience, empathy, and a positive attitude.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and sit for extended periods.
• Ability to lift/assist students or move equipment up to [Insert Weight, e.g., 40 lbs] if required
  Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications described.
  Equity is one of ISD728's core values and is essential to our goal of putting children first to ensure college and career readiness. A diverse workforce fuels innovation and allows us to better understand, communicate with, and educate our students. ISD728 will not deny anyone the opportunity for training or employment because of sex, race, religion, color, creed, national origin, marital status, age, sexual preference, disability, or satus with regard to public assistance.