Instructional Paraprofessional- Kindergarten

Paraprofessional - Instructional

The Classroom Paraprofessional is responsible for working as a team member in providing a quality educational program for assigned scholars by providing additional time for the teacher to plan. The Classroom Paraprofessional is also responsible for certain non-instructional and concept/skill reinforcement tasks and providing scholars the opportunity for additional adult/scholar relationships.

Essential functions under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include any of the following duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is illustrative only and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by employees in this position. Regular on time and in person attendance is an essential function of this job. Other essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Responsible for actively participating in building activities, meetings, parent conferences, staffing, training, IEP, when appropriate, as determined by the building administration or the assigned certified teacher.
• Present lessons to individual scholars or small groups, assisting in all introductions of information and concepts, selection and preparation of materials, establishment of reward systems, as determined by the certified teacher. This includes work outdoors, all year round (all seasons).
• Assist with loading and unloading of buses and recess duty, when necessary.
• Responsible for informing the certified teacher of any specific needs or concerns regarding the scholars.
• Responsible for carrying through on suggestions, as directed by the teacher.
• When needed, assist with medical and grooming needs of scholars.
• Assist in preparing displays of scholar work.
• Secure, set up and operate materials and equipment.
• Assist teacher in maintaining a positive classroom climate.
• Interact with co-workers, administration, scholars, parents & the community in positive, supportive, and cooperative ways.
• Work outside each day for extended periods of time.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

• Completed at least two years of study at an institution of higher education (60 credits); or
• Obtained an associate's or higher degree; or
• Achieved a passing score on a MDE approved ETS paraprofessional assessment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to deal with scholars, parents, staff, and community in a tactful and courteous manner.
• Experience working with children.
• Demonstrates strong written and verbal communication skills with exceptional organizational abilities.
• Ability to work with computers.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to information security protocols.
• Ability to work in a diverse environment.
• Ability to participate as a member of the team.
• Consistently demonstrate dependable attendance and punctuality.

The physical demands, work environment factors, and mental functions described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The Grand Rapids Public Schools will not discriminate against any person based on race, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, height, weight, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran, or military status.