Support, Opportunity, Achievement and Resilience (SOAR) Program Paraprofessional

Somerset County Public Schools; Westover (MD); On-site; USD 23,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Somerset County Public Schools is seeking a SOAR Program Paraprofessional to provide instructional, behavioral, and social-emotional support in an Alternative Learning Classroom. Under a certified teacher, you will help implement IEPs, manage classroom dynamics, and ensure a safe environment.

The role emphasizes collaboration with the instructional team, accurate documentation, and adherence to Maryland regulations.

Qualifications

• Must have HS Diploma or GED with one of the following: 48 sem hours; Associate’s degree or higher; or a passing ParaPro score (455+).
• Preference: prior experience in Special Education or ABA or trauma-informed care.
• Strong communication in English and ability to work with students, families, and teams.
• Proficiency with MS Office, educational software, and data-tracking tools.

Responsibilities

• Provide instructional support by following teacher plans and reinforcing concepts.
• Assist with behavioral interventions and de-escalation using approved techniques.
• Collaborate with instructional team on progress, planning, and objectives.
• Maintain confidential student records and data as required by law and policy.
• Maintain safe, orderly, therapeutic learning environments and supervise students during non-instructional times.
• Promote student self-regulation, academic confidence, and social-emotional growth.
• Report safety concerns immediately and adhere to Maryland COMAR requirements.

Skills

English communication

Math support

Emotional intelligence

Tech proficiency

Education

High School Diploma or GED

48 college semester hours

Associate’s degree or higher

ParaPro Assessment (455+)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Educational software

Data-tracking tools

Job description

Support, Opportunity, Achievement and Resilience (SOAR) Program Paraprofessional

Somerset County Public Schools CENTRAL OFFICE - Westover, Maryland Open in Google Maps

This job is also posted in Somerset County Public Schools (MD)

Job Details

Job ID: 5906195
Application Deadline: Sep 03, 2026 11:59 PM (Eastern Standard Time)
Posted: Aug 27, 2026 4:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Description

Somerset County Public Schools is recruiting Support, Opportunity, Achievement and Resilience (SOAR) Program Paraprofessionals. Join a small but mighty district offering competitive salaries, a generous leave package, supportive leadership, and a strong sense of community.

I. Position Summary

The SOAR Paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, and social-emotional support to students in an Alternative Learning Classroom setting. Under the direct supervision of a certified teacher, the incumbent assists in implementing individualized educational plans, managing classroom dynamics, and fostering a safe environment conducive to students who require alternative behavioral or academic strategies.

II. Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Instructional Support: Implements lesson plans and instructional activities as prescribed by the teacher; works with students individually or in small groups to reinforce learning concepts.

• Behavioral Intervention: Implements positive behavior intervention strategies and formal Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs). Assists in de-escalating student crises using state-approved techniques.

• Collaboration: Meets regularly with the instructional team to discuss student progress, daily planning, and classroom objectives.

• Documentation: Maintains accurate, confidential records of student performance, behavioral data, and interventions as required by Maryland state law and IDEA.

• Classroom Management: Maintains a secure, orderly, and therapeutic learning environment. Monitors students during non-instructional periods, including transitions, lunch, and recess.

• Student Advocacy: Acts as a positive role model, encouraging student self-regulation, academic confidence, and social-emotional growth.

• Safety & Compliance: Reports all safety concerns and incidents to administration immediately; adheres to all COMAR (Code of Maryland Regulations) regarding student discipline and restraint/seclusion.

III. Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

Education and Experience (ESSA Compliant)

In accordance with Maryland MSDE requirements, candidates must have a High School Diploma or GED and meet one of the following:

• Completion of at least 48 semester hours of study at an accredited institution of higher education; OR

• An Associate’s degree or higher; OR

• A passing score on the ParaPro Assessment (455 or higher).

• Preference: Prior experience in Special Education, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), or trauma-informed care.

Skills and Abilities

• Communication: Proficiency in oral and written English to communicate effectively with students, parents, and multidisciplinary teams.

• Mathematical Skills: Ability to assist students with core mathematical concepts through the secondary level.

• Reasoning & Emotional Intelligence: Ability to remain calm, professional, and objective during high-stress behavioral incidents.

• Technical Proficiency: Competence in Microsoft Office Suite, educational software, and digital data-tracking tools.

IV. Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Physical Effort: Frequently required to stand, walk, and reach. Must be able to occasionally lift/move up to 50 lbs.

• Mobility: Must be able to respond quickly to student needs or elopement (running) if necessary.

• Environment: The noise level is typically moderate but may increase during behavioral episodes. Potential exposure to physical aggression from students requiring specialized intervention.

Equal Opportunity: Somerset County Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.

Position Type: N/A

Salary: $22,631 to $35,242 Per Year

Job Categories: Instructional Support > Paraprofessional / IA

Contact Information

• Jacklyn Olischar , Human Resources Associate
• CENTRAL OFFICE
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]