Release Date:  October 4, 2024

Application Deadline:  OPEN UNTIL FILLED

Requisition: 11082

Current benefitted staff of SMCPS who submit a timely application and meet the minimum qualifications for the position shall be granted an interview and shall be considered to fill the vacancy prior to external applicants being considered. Questions regarding your application and/or candidacy should be directed to the Department of Human Resources.

POSITION:     Special Education Paraeducator (10-month assignment) Grant-Funded

REPORTS TO: Principal

LOCATION:     Esperanza Middle School

SALARY: The salary for this position will be based on EASMC-ESP salary schedule for 10-month, 7-hour employees - Range 8 ($26,395-$39,917)

EFFECTIVE: November 2024     

NATURE OF WORK:

The Special Education Paraeducator works under the direction of the building administrator, classroom teacher and other school/central office resource staff to provide services and support to students with disabilities and to support the full implementation of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) /Individual and Family Service Plan (IFSP).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Ability to professionally relate to and collaborate with co-workers, students, and community members
• Ability to understand and maintain confidentiality
• Ability to use technology effectively to complete tasks
• Ability to report to work daily and on time
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to follow both written and verbal instructions
• Ability to work under pressure
• Possess knowledge of the programs, policies, and procedures of the St. Mary’s County Public School System
• Possess effective organizational skills
• Possess effective written and oral communication skills

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists students with developmental needs with adaptive and daily living skills, which may include movement, toileting, feeding, dressing, self-help, and positioning in adaptive equipment/devices
• Meets with the teacher on a regular basis to plan for and review instructional programs
• Implements instructional/behavioral plans and protocols in accordance with the student’s Individualized Education Program/Individual and Family Service Plan
• Collects data on academic/behavioral programs as directed by the special education teacher and school-based/county-based administrators
• Provides instructional/behavioral/self-help assistance to students as necessary throughout the school day
• Possesses and maintains CPI certifications when assigned to regional programs (COMPASS, TIDES, SAIL, LAP, PSSE, and Infants & Toddlers)
• Maintains appropriate safety standards while assisting students during arrival and departure times
• Assists the teacher and/or other professionals in record keeping
• Keeps required materials readily available for follow-up activities
• Operates and maintains equipment specific to their assigned area
• Assists teachers with preparation of classroom-based materials, appropriate learning activities and supports
• Accompanies and supports students to special areas classes, related arts, lunch/recess, and field trips
• Performs other related and non-related job duties as assigned 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Associate degree or 48-semester college credits or successful completion of the Paraprofessional (documents must be uploaded to your application)

Preferred:

• Related college classes or training
• Experience working with children 

TERM OF EMPLOYMENT:

Full-time ten-month position.

SALARY GRADE RANGE:

The salary for this position will be based on EASMC-ESP salary schedule for ten-month seven-hour employees – Range 8.

BARGAINING UNIT ELIGIBILITY: EASMC-ESP

Updated 07.2024