Experienced Paraeducator for Special Education Support - Group 1 (2023-2024 SY)

Join Our Team: Empowering Students with Special Needs

At Norwalk Public Schools, we are committed to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters academic excellence and personal growth for all students. As a leading educational institution in Connecticut, we are dedicated to ensuring that every student receives the support they need to thrive. We are currently seeking an experienced and compassionate Paraeducator to join our Special Education team as part of our mission to empower students with special needs.

About the Role

As a Paraeducator - Special Education - Group 1, you will play a vital role in supporting students with diverse needs, helping them to participate fully in their educational program. Under the direct supervision of a special education teacher, you will assist in the implementation of Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goals, provide behavioral support, and help students develop essential life skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting Instructional Goals: Assist the teacher with the implementation of classroom instructional goals, Section 504 plans, and IEP goals.
• Student Support: Provide one-on-one and small group support to students with classwork, and assist with documentation of student progress.
• Behavioral Support: Implement behavioral programs developed by the teacher, and provide support during recess, breaks, emergency drills, assemblies, on school buses, and field trips.
• Life Skills Development: Assist and support students to develop independent living skills, including hygiene, transportation, self-management, food preparation, and feeding.
• Data Collection: Record data on student learning activities as developed by the teacher, and provide information for progress monitoring and daily reports.
• Communication: Maintain respect for confidential information, and interact positively with staff, students, parents, and visitors.

Essential Qualifications

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• A High School diploma or equivalency, and a ParaPro Certificate.
• A Bachelor's Degree, Associate's Degree in education or a related field, or two years of college is preferred.
• Two years of experience working with children or young adults in a school setting is preferred, with specific experience working with students with high management needs being an asset.
• Language proficiency in Spanish, French, or Haitian Creole is desirable.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and to work collaboratively with others.
• Organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to implement teacher directives related to instructional and behavioral goals.

What We Offer

As a member of our team, you will enjoy:

• A competitive salary range of $23.56 - $28.08 per hour.
• A 10-month work year (August - June), with a 27.5 hour workweek schedule determined by the Principal.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development, including attendance at meetings and professional development activities.
• A supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and promotes a positive school culture.
• Limited benefits are available.

Why Join Norwalk Public Schools?

At Norwalk Public Schools, we are passionate about providing a world-class education that prepares our students for success in an ever-changing world. As a Paraeducator - Special Education - Group 1, you will be part of a dedicated team that is committed to making a difference in the lives of our students. We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment that fosters professional growth, creativity, and innovation.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Norwalk Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer, committed to ensuring that all employees and applicants are treated with dignity and respect. We prohibit unlawful discrimination because of race, color, religion, creed, age, marital status, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or physical and mental disability.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you are a compassionate and dedicated individual who is passionate about supporting students with special needs, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a Paraeducator - Special Education - Group 1, you will play a vital role in shaping the educational experiences of our students, and helping them to achieve their full potential.

Apply now to join our team and become part of a community that is dedicated to empowering students with special needs.