Special Education Paraeducator (38 hours biweekly)

Alice M. Barrows Elementary School; Reading (MA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Part time

Job summary

Alice M. Barrows Elementary School in Reading, MA is seeking a Special Education Parapro to support students with disabilities under teacher supervision. The role involves one-on-one or small group assistance to access curriculum and meet individualized education plan goals.

The position emphasizes collaboration with teachers, therapists, and other staff to foster a safe, inclusive classroom, promote social development, and ensure student well-being. Immediate start and part-time schedule.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or related work experience required.
• Experience supporting students with disabilities preferred.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities essential.
• Ability to follow directions, adapt to changing needs, and maintain calm under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Assist students with disabilities one-on-one or in small groups under teacher guidance.
• Support access to the curriculum and implement IEP accommodations/modifications.
• Collaborate with teachers, nurses, and specialists to maintain a safe learning environment.
• Collect data on student progress and communicate with the educational team.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Patience & empathy

Independent work

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Special Education Paraeducator (38 hours biweekly)

Reading Public Schools Alice M. Barrows Elementary School - Reading, Massachusetts Open in Google Maps

This job is also posted in Reading Public Schools

Job Details

Application Deadline: Posted until filled

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Description

Reading Public Schools is a vibrant and inclusive educational community dedicated to providing exceptional learning experiences for all students. Our commitment to inclusive education ensures that every student, regardless of their individual needs, has the opportunity to thrive academically and socially. We are currently seeking a passionate and dedicated Special Education Paraeducator to join our team.

As a Special Education Paraeducator, you will play a crucial role in supporting the educational and developmental needs of students with disabilities. Working under the guidance of our special education teachers and staff, you will provide one‑on‑one or small group assistance to students, helping them access the curriculum and reach their full potential. Your dedication and compassion will contribute to the success and growth of our special education programs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist special education teachers, general education teachers, and other certified specialists in accommodating/modifying lessons and implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with disabilities
• Provide academic and behavioral support to students both inside and outside the classroom
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists, nurses, and other professionals to create and maintain a safe and supportive learning environment
• Foster a positive and inclusive classroom atmosphere by promoting social and emotional growth while also ensuring personal and group safety
• Supervise and assist students with daily tasks and activities, including mobility, transitions, hygiene, self‑care, self‑regulation, and communication
• Models appropriate behavior for students
• Collect accurate data to maintain student progress records and communicate with collaborative educational team on a consistent basis
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma and/or related work experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience working with students with disabilities
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Patience, empathy, and genuine passion for working with students with diverse needs
• Ability to follow directions, work independently, and adapt to changing situations
• Completion of trainings as required (i.e. CPR, first aid, restraint)

Working Conditions:

• Frequent movement throughout the school building
• Normal school environment with acceptable noise levels
• Interaction with students, parents, and staff, occasionally juggling multiple demands
• Work in a classroom with the ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, stoop, squat, bend, or twist
• Frequent use of hands for tasks and hand strength to grasp tools
• Occasional lifting or positioning of students
• Occasional operation of office machinery and computers as well as ability to input information into a computer and read printed or digital material
• Potential for exposure to unpredictable behavior

Position: Special Education Program Paraprofessional

Department: Building

Reports to: Principal

FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt

Union: Reading Paraeducators Association

Pre-Employment Screening: CORI, Criminal

Last revised: September 8, 2023

Position Type: Part-Time
Salary: $25.38 to $32.43 Please see our Salary Schedule (readingma.gov)
Job Categories:

Instructional Support > Paraprofessional / IA

Equal Opportunity Employer

Reading Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws. Additionally, we prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose such discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity investigation.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Job Requirements

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required

Contact Information

• Alissa Gallegos
• Alice M. Barrows Elementary School
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]