Special Education Paraprofessional

Accel; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 32,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Accel is a private, nonprofit organization for children and young adults with special needs, ages 5-22. In this paraprofessional role you will work closely with the classroom teacher to support students with learning, communication, physical, and behavioral needs in a structured setting.

You will document progress, assist with lesson centers, personal hygiene, meals, and transitions, and help implement behavior plans and IEP goals.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to obtain Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Background check required for employment.

Responsibilities

• Support students with learning, communication, physical, and behavioral needs in a structured setting.
• Assist with centers, stations, and instructional materials for effective lessons.
• Document progress and behaviors for IEPs in real time.
• Support with personal hygiene, meal preparation, and prescribed feeding programs.
• Assist with transitions between activities and collaborate on lesson plans.

Skills

Patience

Collaboration

Communication

Adaptability

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

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 and lifting up to 50 pounds. 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