Special Education Paraprofessional - Elementary

About Gwinnett County Public Schools

Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) is a premier school district dedicated to cultivating a diverse, supportive environment where every student thrives. We are seeking passionate Elementary Special Education Paraprofessionals to empower students with diverse learning needs, ranging from mild to severe disabilities, to reach their full academic, social, and emotional potential.

Role Overview

As a Special Education Paraprofessional, you will partner directly with classroom teachers to support elementary students individually or in small groups. You will play a vital role in implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), tracking progress toward specific student goals, reinforcing instruction, managing classroom dynamics, and fostering an inclusive, encouraging learning environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Instructional & IEP Support: Reinforce concepts introduced by the teacher, support individual student IEP goals, guide small group activities, and assist with hands–on learning, games, and skill building exercises.
• Classroom Management: Assist in maintaining a positive, orderly environment; reinforce behavioral standards and classroom rules.
• Student Monitoring & Progress: Track student performance, assist in evaluating coursework, and communicate learning updates or deficiencies to the lead teacher.
• Operational & Administrative Prep: Prepare instructional materials, set up classroom technology, perform light clerical duties like copying and filing, and maintain attendance records.
• Student Supervision: Escort students safely throughout the building and monitor students during hallway transitions, lunch, recess, and bus loading or unloading.

Qualifications

Required:

• Certification: Active Paraprofessional Educator Certificate issued by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC). (See below for pathways to earn paraprofessional certification)

Preferred:

• Prior experience in a licensed childcare, educational, or developmental support setting.

Core Skills:

• Basic knowledge of child development and effective interpersonal or communication skills.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and basic classroom technology or media equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, stoop, kneel, or crouch to assist elementary aged children throughout the day.
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Valid driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle as required by job assignments.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Ready to Apply?

Submit your official application with Gwinnett County Public Schools online at:

Application Checklist & Required Documents

To move forward in the hiring process, please ensure your application includes:

Qualification Documentation (Must meet ONE pathway):

• Pathway A: Associate’s Degree or higher (any subject) — Upload official or unofficial college transcripts.
• Pathway B: 60+ semester hours of college coursework (above remedial level with grade of "C" or better) — Upload official or unofficial college transcripts.
• Pathway C: GACE Paraprofessional Assessment — Upload GACE score report & High School Diploma/GED equivalent.

Professional Reference:

• At least one reference from your current or most recent direct supervisor. Please send to a professional work email address.

5 Year Employment History:

• Complete work history covering at least the last 5 consecutive years manually entered on the application. Ensure there are zero time gaps, or briefly explain any employment gaps.

MyPSC Account: