Paraprofessional

Paraprofessional

The Paraprofessional supports teachers and other school personnel in providing a safe, positive, and effective learning environment for students. The paraprofessional assists with instructional activities, student supervision, classroom management, and other duties necessary to support student achievement and the daily operation of the school.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Assist the classroom teacher in implementing instructional activities and lessons for individual students and small groups.
• Provide academic support and reinforcement of skills as directed by the classroom teacher.
• Assist students with completing assignments, classroom activities, and educational programs.
• Work with individual students or small groups to reinforce concepts and skills introduced by the teacher.
• Assist with classroom management and encourage appropriate student behavior.
• Supervise students in classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, playgrounds, buses, arrival/dismissal areas, and other school settings as assigned.
• Assist in preparing instructional materials, classroom displays, supplies, and equipment.
• Monitor student progress and communicate observations to the supervising teacher.
• Support students with special needs in accordance with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 Plans, behavior plans, or other student support plans, when applicable.
• Provide assistance with mobility, personal care, feeding, toileting, or other student needs when required by the assigned position.
• Promote student independence while providing appropriate levels of assistance and support.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records, educational information, and other sensitive information in accordance with district policy and applicable laws.
• Maintain professional and respectful relationships with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and other district employees.
• Follow all Nashville School District policies, procedures, safety requirements, and staff expectations.
• Participate in required training, professional development, meetings, and other activities as directed.
• Assist with maintaining a clean, organized, safe, and productive learning environment.
• Perform clerical or organizational duties related to classroom or student needs as assigned.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the building principal, supervising teacher, or district administration.

Qualifications:

Education and Training: High school diploma or equivalent required. Must meet all applicable state and federal requirements for paraprofessionals. Additional education, training, or certification may be required depending on the assignment. Experience working with children or in an educational setting is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Work effectively and cooperatively with children and adults.
• Follow oral and written instructions.
• Communicate effectively with students, staff, and supervisors.
• Demonstrate patience, dependability, professionalism, and good judgment.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding students and school matters.
• Work effectively as a member of an educational team.
• Respond appropriately to individual student needs and behaviors.
• Establish positive relationships with students while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
• Adapt to changing assignments, schedules, and student needs.
• Use technology and educational equipment required for the assigned position.

Physical Requirements:

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Depending upon the assignment, duties may require standing, walking, sitting, bending, stooping, reaching, lifting, and assisting students with mobility or personal needs. The employee may be required to lift or assist with moving students, equipment, or instructional materials.

Work Environment:

The paraprofessional primarily works in a school environment and may be assigned duties in classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, playgrounds, buses, athletic facilities, or other district locations. The employee may occasionally be exposed to outdoor weather conditions and varying noise levels.

Professional Expectations:

All Nashville School District employees are expected to demonstrate professionalism, maintain appropriate confidentiality, support the educational mission of the district, and contribute to a positive school culture. Employees are expected to comply with all district policies, procedures, applicable laws, and directives from supervisors.

Evaluation:

Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with Nashville School District procedures for classified personnel.

Disclaimer:

The information contained in this job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, or qualifications required. Nashville School District reserves the right to modify or assign additional duties as necessary.