Special Education Paraeducator/Instructional Assistant - Elementary

Young World Physical Education

Evansdale (IA)

On-site

USD 25,196 - 27,896

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

Young World Physical Education in Evansdale, Iowa seeks a Special Education Paraeducator to assist teachers in providing support for students with special needs. The role involves individual or small group instruction and collaboration with teachers to enhance educational outcomes.

Candidates should have a high school diploma and comply with NCLB regulations. Full-time position with hourly earnings ranging from $18.29 to $20.25. Strong engagement with students and staff is essential, along with effective communication skills.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required.
Experience with students with special needs preferred.
NCLB compliance necessary.

Responsibilities

Assist in providing instruction to individuals or small groups.
Monitor and observe student behavior as per teacher directions.
Participate in IEP meetings and professional development.

Skills

Knowledge of behavior management techniques

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing

Ability to monitor and observe student behavior

Knowledge of child guidance principles

Knowledge of core subjects

Ability to develop rapport with students

Education

High school diploma or equivalency

NCLB compliant para educator license

Tools

Basic computer skills

Intermediate computer skills

Job description

JOB ID: 5794514

Application Deadline: Jul 31, 2026 4:30 PM (Central Standard Time)

Posted: Jun 22, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Aug 1, 2026

Special Education Paraeducator/Instructional Assistant

Job Title: Special Education Paraeducator/Instructional Assistant

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Classification: Educational Support Personnel

Immediate Supervisor: Building Principal

EEO Statement: Waterloo Schools is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Job Summary

This position works under the direction of the building administrator and Director of Special Education. It is responsible for assisting a teacher to provide an efficient and effective classroom and school environment for students by providing assistance with educational programming, either individually or in small groups of students. The role also includes monitoring, redirecting students to support academic progress, providing supervision of students, and performing a variety of clerical duties as assigned.

Hiring Specifications

Education

High school diploma or equivalency
NCLB compliance – 60 college credit hours, associate’s degree, generalist or specialist para educator license issued by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners or successful completion of the district-approved competency test
Computer/technology training as required for the position

Certification

NCLB compliance – see above

Experience

Experience working with students with special needs preferred

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

Knowledge of behavior management techniques
Knowledge of child guidance principles and practices, especially as they relate to students with learning disabilities, developmental delays, and autistic behavior
Knowledge of core subjects taught in district schools including arithmetic, grammar, spelling, language and reading, punctuation and vocabulary and ability to assist with instructional and related activities in a learning environment
Knowledge of safe practices in classroom and playground activities and health regulations
Knowledge of core instructional methods and techniques
Ability to monitor and observe student behavior according to approved policies and procedures
Knowledge of district policies, rules and regulations
Basic record-keeping skills
Ability to develop rapport and interact effectively with students
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
Ability to handle emotionally charged situations
Ability to interact and collaborate with staff, students and families in a professional manner
Ability to maintain confidentiality
Ability to work effectively, cooperatively and respectfully with staff, parents and community members regardless of race, creed, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic/national origin, religion, marital status, age, socio-economic status or disability
Show professional and ethical conduct as defined by district policy and procedures
Show excellent attendance and is consistently on time for work as scheduled (including after all breaks)
Maintain a professional appearance

Technology Requirements

Basic computer skills (computer navigation, email, web browser, Employee Portal)
Intermediate computer skills (Google Suites, search function, student information systems, Basis Promethean)
Ability to reach all skill levels listed if not already acquired

Supervision of Others

Personal Contacts

All district staff, students and families
Central Rivers AEA personnel

Job Duties

Assists in providing instruction to individuals or small groups of students, reinforcing instruction as directed by the teacher.
Actively participates in professional development.
Provide additional support to students based on individual need.
Actively participates in IEP meetings, behavior intervention meetings when applicable.
Works with others to improve professional practice and student learning.
Monitors and assists students in prescribed learning activities.
Monitors, observes and reports progress of student(s) in regards to behavior, academics or health related issues as determined by teacher, instructional strategist or administrator.
Assists students and parents by providing proper examples, emotional support and general guidance as directed.
Communicates with teachers regarding programs and materials to meet student needs.
Follows health and safety practices and regulations.
Assists students in developing self-help and self-advocacy skills as directed.
Assists in implementing specialized student plans (IEP, BIP, 504, IHP), as needed.
Supports Positive Behavior Intervention System (PBIS) initiatives.
Communicates models and maintains standards of responsible student behavior in line with classroom and building goals and rules.
Uses instructional time effectively to maximize student achievement.
Provides appropriate supervision of students in classrooms, halls, lunchroom, playground and all other areas as directed.
Directs student group activities as assigned.
Provides assistance with de‑escalating student behaviors in order to maximize instructional time.
Implements classroom management system.
Bus monitor as needed for student support.
Transports students as needed (primarily TAP Para).
Follows Board policies, district procedures and contractual obligations.
Completes other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

Standing – 0%
Walking – 1‑32%
Sitting – 33‑66%
Bending/Stooping – 67%+
Pushing/Pulling – X
Reaching – X
Climbing/Stairs – X
Driving – X
Lifting – up to 25 lbs.
Carrying – up to 25 lbs.
Manual Dexterity Tasks – Telephone X, Computer X, Other

Additional Physical Requirements

Ability to provide physical care for assigned student(s)
Ability to perform physical restraint as needed following the appropriate district procedures
Successful completion of post‑offer drug screening and physical as well as background check and as required thereafter by master agreement and State law.

Terms of Employment

As defined by the Board of Education and the negotiated agreement with the Waterloo Education Support Personnel. Performance evaluated annually.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $18.29 to $20.25 per hour

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