Special Education Paraprofessional

Accel; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Life Insurance

PTO & Sick Leave

401(k)

Tuition Reimbursement

Health Savings Account

Job summary

Accel is seeking a Special Education Paraprofessional for a 10-month position (August-May) in Phoenix, AZ. The role supports students with diverse needs under the guidance of a classroom teacher in a structured setting.

You will document progress, follow IEP goals, and assist with centers, dining, and transitions while maintaining a compassionate, dependable presence. Willingness to learn and collaborate is essential.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Fingerprint Clearance Card required or ability to obtain.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Background check required.

Responsibilities

• Help students build independence through emotional regulation, practicing social skills and working towards academic goals outlined in their IEPs.
• Follow behavior intervention plans with consistency and compassion.
• Take real time data throughout the day documenting progress, observations, and behaviors.
• Assist in setting up and maintaining centers, stations, and instructional materials to support effective lesson delivery.
• Assist students with personal hygiene and toilet routines.
• Assist with meal preparation and implementing prescribed feeding programs.
• Assist with transitions between activities, classrooms, or programs.
• Collaborate with the classroom teacher on lesson plans and paperwork, ensuring the classroom runs smoothly.

Skills

Patience

Consistency

Compassion

Dependability

Self-motivation

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Work Schedule & Paid Breaks

• Monday-Friday 8am-3pm
• 10 Month Position (August-May)
• Paid School Breaks! (Fall, Thanksgiving, Winter, Spring)
• Additionally, we observe federal holidays which often involve three-day weekend

We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our staff both professionally and personally, including:

• Health Insurance- Medical, Dental, Vision
• Life Insurance and Supplemental Insurance Options
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Sick Leave
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Tuition Reimbursement Program
• Health Savings Account (HSA) options

Accel is a private, nonprofit organization for children and young adults with special needs, ages 5-22. Accel provides innovative, individualized and comprehensive educational, therapeutic, vocational, behavioral, life skills, and transitional services to individuals with a wide range of disabilities including autism, intellectual, physical disabilities and health impairments.

A Day in the Life of a Special Education Paraprofessional

Throughout the day, you will work closely with the classroom teacher to support students with a wide range of learning, communication, physical, and behavioral needs. This support may happen one-on-one with a student or in small group settings. This position is hands-on and operates within a structured environment. It requires patience, consistency, and a genuine passion for supporting individuals with special needs.

In this role, you will

• Help students build independence through emotional regulation, practicing social skills and working towards academic goals outlined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Follow behavior intervention plans with consistency and compassion. Some days require patience, flexibility, and quick thinking.
• Take real time data throughout the day documenting progress, observations, and behaviors, which is crucial for the IEP process.
• Assist in setting up and maintaining centers, stations, and instructional materials to support effective lesson delivery.
• Assist students with personal hygiene and toilet routines.
• Assist with meal preparation and implementing any prescribed feeding programs.
• Assist with transitions, moving between activities, classrooms, or programs.
• Collaborate with the classroom teacher on lesson plans and paperwork, ensuring the classroom runs smoothly.

This role is ideal for someone who is compassionate, dependable, self-motivated, and eager to learn. While the work is challenging, it is deeply rewarding for those who value connection, growth, and purpose.

Working Environment and Physical Expectations:

Candidates should be comfortable supporting behavior management strategies under guidance of trained staff. This role is active and hands-on. Candidates should be able to stand, walk, possibly run and move throughout the day. Perform physical activities such as bending a ≤ up 50 lbs. All Paraprofessionals must be able to successfully complete a QBS Safety Care Crisis Intervention Training.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School or General Equivalency Diploma
• Must have or ability to obtain Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Must be 18 years or older
• Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a required background check