Special Education Para

Young World Physical Education; Newport (RI); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Young World Physical Education is seeking a Special Education Paraprofessional for Pell Elementary School in Newport, Rhode Island. This role involves supporting students with disabilities by assisting with instruction, behavioral support, and personal care needs.

The ideal candidate will have at least a high school diploma, experience with special education, and effective communication skills. The position is 32.5 hours per week with responsibilities that include aiding in personal health needs and ethical behavior adherence.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or G.E.D. required.
• Experience with special education students preferred.
• Ability to work directly with students, including lifting and transferring.

Responsibilities

• Assist the teacher in reinforcing material based on individual student needs.
• Supervise students during activities and emergencies.
• Help students master instructional materials and personal health needs.

Skills

Ability to assist in instructing reading, writing, and mathematics

Effective communication

Bilingual

Education

High school or G.E.D. diploma

Completed at least two years of study or obtained an associate's degree

Successful completion of Teacher Assistant Training Program

Job description

Special Education Para

Job Details

• Job ID: 5814056
• Application Deadline: Posted until filled
• Posted: Jul 01, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)
• Starting Date: Sep 1, 2026

Job Description

Position: Special Education Paraprofessional

Location: Pell Elementary School, Newport, Rhode Island

Reports to: Principal and/or designee / Director of Student Services

The Building-Based Special Education Paraprofessional supports students with disabilities including assisting with academic instruction, behavioral support, and personal care needs, as well as helping to implement IEPs.

Education, Training, and Experience

• High school or G.E.D. diploma.
• Meet one of the following:
  • Completed at least two years (48 credits) of study at an institution of higher education; or
  • Obtained an associate’s degree or higher; or
  • Met a rigorous standard of quality and can demonstrate through a formal state or local academic assessment: knowledge and ability to assist in instructing reading, writing, and mathematics; or readiness in reading, writing, and mathematics.
• Successful completion of a Teacher Assistant Training Program or an equivalent program approved by the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE), and any additional requirements promulgated by RIDE.
• Required stamina, enthusiasm, and ability to work directly with students, including lifting, transferring, and restraining.
• Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and professionals concerning the progress and needs of students.
• Demonstrated ability to perform the responsibilities listed below, as evidenced by educational and work‑related experiences, prior employment, and the interview process.
• Bilingual preferred.
• Additional training may be required if deemed necessary for the position, especially for students with autism spectrum disorders.
• Any such alternatives to the above qualifications may be deemed acceptable by the committee.

Responsibilities

• Assists the teacher in devising special strategies for reinforcing material or skills based on a sympathetic understanding of the individual student’s needs, interests, and abilities.
• Assists with the supervision of students during emergency drills, assemblies, play periods, field trips, and other activities.
• Helps students master equipment or instructional materials assigned by the teacher.
• Assists with personal health needs (e.g., toileting, feeding, dressing) as required.
• Maintains a high level of ethical behavior and confidentiality of information about students as expected of all staff.
• Provides clerical assistance to the teacher for required reports.
• Performs other duties as may be assigned by the Administrator.

Physical/Mental Requirements

Walking, jumping, running, balancing, climbing, crawling, standing, turning, stooping, crouching, kneeling, sitting, reaching, lifting, carrying, throwing, pushing, handling, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, color vision, depth perception, pulling, and grasping.

Terms of Employment

• In accordance with the Local 841 contract – Para‑Educators Appendix C.
• 32.5 hours per week. Half‑hour unpaid lunch.
• 10‑month position.
• Hours: 8:30 am–3:30 pm.

Job Requirements

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required.

Contact Information

• Human Resources
• Central Office
• Newport, Rhode Island 02840
• Phone: 401‑324‑5041
• Email: [e-mail]

Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer

The Newport School Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, color, disability or veteran status.