Paraprofessional, Scholar Support (Special Education)

Who We Are

Achievement Prep is an award-winning public charter school network dedicated to empowering underserved communities in Southeast Washington, DC. Our mission is to prepare students to excel as high-achieving scholars and leaders, not only in school but also in life.

Our Values :

• All Scholars are Deserving: Every scholar receives an equitable, top-tier education
• Love is at the Core: We embrace authenticity while setting high expectations
• Exceptional Academic Results: Achieved through daily, data-driven, individualized learning
• Platinum Teachers are a Main Ingredient: YOU are the key to excellent outcomes for our scholars
• Families as Partners: Together, we do “three-generational work”

What You Will Do

As an Achievement Prep Paraprofessional on the Scholar Support (Special Education) Team you will work closely with the Lead Scholar Support Teacher to drive academic success for scholars with special needs providing weekly oversight, training, and direction. . The Paraprofessional will utilize a scholar's Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to create engaging learning experiences that support scholars meeting goals in academic, behavioral,  and social emotional categories. The Paraprofessional will be responsible for providing individual and small group instruction for scholars including, but not limited to: the classroom, recess, and the lunch area. 

Reporting to the Director of School Support and/or Scholar Support Coach, you will:

• Implement individual and small group instruction for scholars special education needs under the direction of the special education case manager
• Collaborate with scholars' case managers to assess scholar progress towards goals on a consistent basis; communicate scholar progress with case managers and general education teachers 
• Collaborate with all staff members to ensure that all scholars have consistent and well-coordinated support and communicate effectively with colleagues and contribute to positive staff culture
• Partner with families on the academic and social progress and needs of a scholar 
• Provide accommodations and/or modifications to learners with disabilities to provide access to grade level content and demonstrate her or his true understanding on assessments as determined by the IEP team in collaboration with general educators
• Ensure that all scholars realize rigorous academic goals outlined in their IEP.
• Implement behavior management strategies during small group and individual instruction in order to support scholar engagement 
• Manage scholar behavior for the purpose of providing a safe and optimal learning environment
• Collect and provide feedback for the development of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) as needed 
• Assist in the implementation of BIPs, which may involve positive reinforcement strategies, behavior modification, or other skills to maintain appropriate behaviors
• Record data for individualized instructional programs and positive behavior support plans
• Support a spectrum of needs for life skills, including but not limited to: toileting and diapering, assist with hygiene, feeding and other daily life skills
• Provide appropriate crisis intervention as necessary using the least restrictive method by anticipating and responding quickly and appropriately to escalating behaviors

School and Community Support: 

• Demonstrate strong pedagogy
• Implement the school-wide scholar management policies within classrooms and everywhere on campus
• Exhibit positive rapport with scholars while creating and foster a positive learning environment
• Establish and maintain strong communication lines with all parents
• Be available for Open Houses, Parent-Teacher Conferences and other events involving parents
• Participate in any meetings for scholars on caseload including, but not limited to, Scholar Support Team (SST) Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) meetings, Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings, and Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) meetings
• Attend and participate in whole-school staff and scholar events such as family nights, new scholar orientation, etc.

Staff Development:

• Actively pursue professional development opportunities, inside and outside of the school
• Foster and develop an awareness of community issues that affect the school environment and intervene when appropriate
• Fulfill continuing education requirements consistent with respective discipline and keep licenses current

Documentation,  Record Keeping, and School Culture:

• Assist with completing special education paperwork including, but not limited to, IEP progress reports and all forms required via scholar information system, Special Programs and/or any other record keeping required
• Adhere to and enforce school-wide protocols and policies
• Assume extracurricular responsibilities, if desired

• Fully integrate into the school community and assume additional school-wide responsibilities to ensure a strong culture
• Collaborate with staff to advance the school’s mission and communicate that mission to its constituents

Education and Experience Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 2+ years of experience working with scholars in k-12 setting 

Is this YOU?

You are a mission-driven educator who believes in the power of education. You are committed to making a difference in underserved communities. You value a quality public education for all and are dedicated to serving every child. You are results-driven and an expert in your content area, constantly seeking ways to improve. You respect timelines and embrace feedback, knowing the mission isn't easy but energizes you. You thrive in ambiguity and find joy in the day-to-day.

Why Work With Us?

Our teachers are worth more than gold, they’re platinum !

• Development : Teachers receive ongoing (weekly or bi-weekly) development from school leaders:
  • Formal and informal observations and feedback
  • 1:1 meetings to discuss teaching practice, scholar data, curriculum, and goals
  • Content team meetings
  • Wednesday afternoon professional development tailored to teacher needs
  • $150 Classroom Reimbursement fund
• Compensation & Benefits : Achievement Prep offers highly competitive compensation and benefits
  • Generous medical, vision, and dental benefits
  • Flexible spending accounts for transit, dependent care, and medical expenses
  • 401K plan with immediate employer matching up to 4%
  • 44-60 days of Paid Time Off, including holidays, break periods, sick, and personal time
  • Wellness benefits including reimbursements for gym, massages, counseling, etc.
• It Pays to Stay :  Upon completion of 2 full school years of service, employees become eligible for annual loyalty incentives
  • Personalized gifts and Achievement Prep swag
  • Compensation Bonuses

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re excited to be part of a dedicated and passionate team, please submit your resume and cover letter to this job posting. Let’s make a difference together!

Achievement Prep encourages individuals of all identities and backgrounds to apply for this position. We are an equal opportunity employer fully committed to hiring a talented and diverse group of individuals. Achievement Prep does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, creed, color, national origin or ancestry, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other category protected by applicable law.