Special Education Paraprofessional

Job DetailsJob Location: Atlanta, GA 30331Salary Range: $19.00 - $21.00 HourlyJob Category: School-based Support KIPP Atlanta Schools is part of the KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program) national network of free, open enrollment, college-preparatory schools dedicated to ensuring that every child grows up free to create the future they want for themselves and their communities. There are 280 KIPP schools in 21 states and the District of Columbia serving more than 175,000 scholars and alumni. KIPP Atlanta currently operates 9 schools including four primary schools, four middle schools and one high school, as well as KIPP Forward which supports scholars on their journey to a choice-filled life. We are a social justice organization and our vision and mission require the work of dedicated, bold and skilled leaders, educators, and support staff who are committed to serving as the catalyst for joyful, academically excellent schools and the foundation for building a more just and equitable world for our scholars. What We Value: Good Decision-Making: “I make thoughtful decisions in alignment with my school’s and organization’s values.” Peer Accountability: “I hold all Big KIPPsters accountable to our schools’ and organization’s values, standards, and expectations.” Excellence Always: “I do all aspects of my work with excellence - the big and the little things, the parts being monitored as well as those not monitored.” Communication is Key: “I communicate with both honesty and love. How I communicate nurtures courage, belonging, partnership, and progress toward our promise to KIPPsters and families.” Scholars Over Everything: “I put our scholars first, 100% of the time, without fail. I quickly resolve any and all adult-centered concerns and qualms to reserve my individual and our collective time and attention for our KIPPsters.” Walk Trumps Talk: “I chose this social justice career. And so, I behave in alignment with my choice. My behaviors match our promise to our scholars and families.” “Us” Only: “I belong to every member of our organization, and every member of our organization belongs to me. I choose unity always - in both the good times and hard times.” Job Summary: The School-Wide Support General Paraprofessional provides flexible, responsive assistance across all areas of the school community. Under the direction of the principal and designated staff, this position supports student learning and well-being in a variety of settings including classrooms, hallways, common areas, and during transitions. The paraprofessional works collaboratively with teachers, specialists, and administrators to ensure a safe, positive, and productive school environment for all students. Job Responsibilities: Staff Absence Coverage and Flexible Support Serve as the school's primary flexible substitute, covering any role across the building when staff are absent — including general education classrooms, special education settings, cafeteria, front office, and other support functions. Step into classrooms to maintain instruction and student supervision when a teacher is absent, following lesson plans or administrator directions. Cover special education paraprofessional roles when a designated para is absent, supporting the implementation of IEPs, 504 plans, or other documented needs — including implementing behavior support plans, accommodations, and instructional modifications as directed by the special education teacher. Cover cafeteria duties including student supervision, lunch line assistance, and maintaining an orderly and safe dining environment. Assist in front office, hallway monitoring, or arrival/dismissal roles to ensure continuous adult presence throughout the building. Support specials, electives, or pull-out settings when the assigned staff member is absent. Respond promptly and professionally to coverage assignments communicated by administration, adjusting priorities as school needs shift throughout the day. Classroom and Instructional Support Assist teachers with delivering instruction and managing classroom activities as directed. Work with individual students or small groups to reinforce skills introduced by the classroom teacher. Prepare and organize instructional materials, copies, and classroom resources. Monitor student engagement and report behavioral or academic concerns to the supervising teacher. Provide support during assessments, including reading directions and scribing when authorized. School-Wide Supervision and Safety Supervise students in hallways, cafeteria, playgrounds, and during arrival and dismissal. Support smooth and orderly transitions between classes and activities. Maintain a safe, respectful environment by modeling and reinforcing school-wide behavior expectations. Assist in de-escalating student conflicts using approved strategies and immediately notify appropriate staff of safety concerns. Student Support and Relationships Build positive, trusting relationships with all students to support engagement and belonging. Assist students with personal and physical needs as required and appropriate. Support students experiencing emotional or behavioral difficulties by providing calm, consistent guidance. Communicate student needs to teachers, counselors, and other staff in a timely and professional manner. Administrative and Operational Support Assist with clerical tasks, data entry, copying, and other operational duties as assigned. Support school events, field trips, and special programming as needed. Maintain confidentiality of student records and information in accordance with FERPA. Complete required documentation, logs, and reports accurately and on time. Candidate Qualifications Required: High school diploma or equivalent GAPSC Paraprofessional certification or associate's degree or 48 college credit hours Demonstrated ability to work effectively with children in an educational setting Strong interpersonal and communication skills with students, families, and colleagues Ability to follow directions, work independently, and adapt to changing priorities throughout the school day Commitment to the academic success and holistic well‑being of all students Preferred: Previous experience as a paraprofessional, instructional aide, or in a related educational role Familiarity with trauma‑informed practices, restorative approaches, or PBIS Experience supporting students with diverse learning needs, including students with IEPs or 504 plans Compensation & Benefits: Compensation is competitive and aligned with KIPP Atlanta Schools’ salary bands. The hourly range for this role is $19- $21 and is based on experience, qualifications, and internal equity. Most new hires are placed in the lower to mid-range of the salary range. Placement near the top of the range is uncommon at hire and reserved for individuals who exceed role qualifications through depth of expertise, leadership maturity, and proven results leading complex initiatives with sustained, organization-level impact. 10 days of Paid Time Off, in addition to identified holidays Comprehensive health insurance (medical and dental), life insurance and optional short and long term disability Counseling and Telehealth Options Paid Parental Leave Participation in Georgia retirement plan and an optional 403(b) retirement plan. Location & Work Conditions: Regular presence at a school campus; Must be based in Atlanta Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the school building for extended periods Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and assist students with physical needs as required Ability to perform duties in various settings including classrooms, outdoor areas, and common spaces This position operates in a school environment and follows the school's academic calendar. Hours are generally aligned with the school day, with occasional requirements to attend professional development, events, or meetings outside of regular school hours. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement KIPP Atlanta Schools is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Duties may be adjusted based on school and organizational needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr