Paraprofessional - Essential Elements

Description POSITION DESCRIPTION TITLE: Para Professional

• Essential Elements REPORTS TO: Academic Director STATUS: Non-Exempt JOB SUMMARY: Paraprofessionals help create a safe and structured environment during the school day for all students through the effective implementation of de-escalation practices when needed. They also work with students who need individual help to strengthen and reinforce academic skills and provide subject specific support under the teacher’s direction. They oversee the collection of behavior data as directed by the students’ academic plan and/or their behavioral intervention plan (BIP). They will enter the data as a part of the student record. They will help with student movement from the dorms to the classrooms each morning. They will also supervise student movement from the classrooms to other locations in the school and during lunch. Duties: Implement the school’s positive behavior management plan with fidelity. Become knowledgeable of and implement behavioral management strategies to support students emotionally and behaviorally. Implement student’s behavioral management plan, (BIP); maintain a student data record. Maintains a safe and appropriate learning environment by setting appropriate limits using a patience and therapeutic tone. Provides 1:1 instruction and academic support for students. Monitors student movement between/during classes, for scheduled therapy sessions and during lunch. Obtains and maintains required certifications and/or TA training. Gives appropriate feedback to the teachers on student work. Accepts other responsibilities when needed and are appropriate. Personally, responds to direct requests or questions from clients or other customers in a timely manner. Listens carefully to clients and customers, probing to clarify their specific need or request. Maintains composure during stressful interactions. Keeps commitments extended to clients or customers. Collaborates with staff in department to continually improve service delivery or Academy operations. Demonstrates understanding how position supports the goals of the department and vision of the organization, including how it supports other departments and processes within the organization. Supports facility public relations, community education, and referral development efforts. Supports Academy's safety and security program. Participates in internal Performance Improvement program. Demonstrates ability to intervene and communicate appropriately with adolescents. Maintains appropriate boundaries with students. Keeps annual in-services up to date.

Qualifications

1. HS Diploma/GED, BS Preferred.
2. Knowledge of human behavior, social interactions, and psychology is useful.
3. Acceptable oral and written communication skills.
4. Telephone, computer, and face-to-face customer service skills.
5. Experience in working with students in a school setting is preferred but not required. Physical demands: Under normal circumstances the employee will need to have the physical capacity to continuously use his/her hands for simple and firm grasping and fine manipulation. The employee may be required to do the following: Physically able to bend, stand, stoop, or sit for long periods of time. Lift and carry up to 50 lbs. Push / Pull up to 100 lbs. Possible restraining of escalated clients Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical demands may vary for each client. You will be provided with more information if special physical demands are needed for a client. By signing below, I acknowledge that I have been informed of the expectations of my position and understand that failing to meet these expectations could result in disciplinary action up to and including employment termination.