Special Populations Support Staff: Prek-8th Grade

Job Description

Job Description

Role Overview

We're seeking a compassionate, adaptable Special Populations Support Specialist to support students Pre-K through 8th grade with diverse learning, behavioral, communication, and mobility needs.

In this role, you'll partner with special education teachers, classroom teachers, therapists, and school leaders to help students access instruction, build independence, and participate fully in the school day. While you won't serve as the teacher of record or case manager, you'll play an essential role in implementing students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and ensuring they receive the individualized support they need to succeed.

This position serves multiple schools throughout the district , providing support wherever student needs are greatest. If you enjoy variety, collaboration, and meaningful work, you'll have the opportunity to make an impact every day.

You'll work with students across Pre-K through 8th grade in inclusive classrooms, resource settings, and specialized learning environments .

Students have a wide range of educational, developmental, behavioral, communication, and mobility needs. Every assignment is unique, giving you the opportunity to build meaningful relationships while supporting students at different ages and stages of development.

• Implement accommodations, modifications, and supports outlined in students' IEPs
• Provide one-on-one and small-group support during instruction and daily classroom activities
• Support students with academic, behavioral, communication, social-emotional, mobility, and functional needs
• Assist with classroom participation, transitions, and personal care as needed
• Reinforce positive behavior strategies and intervention plans
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists, administrators, and related service providers
• Adapt to changing assignments across schools and grade levels based on district needs
• Monitor student progress and communicate observations with the educational team
• Help create a safe, structured, inclusive learning environment where students can thrive

• Believe every student deserves individualized support and opportunities to succeed
• Build strong relationships while maintaining consistency and high expectations
• Are flexible, patient, and solution-oriented
• Enjoy collaborating with multidisciplinary teams
• Are comfortable supporting students with a wide variety of disabilities and learning needs
• Bring professionalism, compassion, and excellent communication skills

• Experience supporting students with disabilities in educational, therapeutic, or clinical settings
• Previous experience as a paraprofessional, instructional assistant, Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), ABA therapist, or student support professional
• Special Education certification, licensure, or significant Special Education experience strongly preferred
• ABA or behavior intervention experience is highly valued

• Location: Franklin, TN
• Position Type: Full-Time
• Schedule: School-day hours
• School Assignments: Support multiple schools throughout the district based on student needs
• Start Date: August 2026

When you join this opportunity through Thrive Education Partners , you'll have a dedicated partner throughout the hiring process and beyond.

We'll help you learn about the district, prepare for interviews, and support your transition into the role. Once you're hired, we'll continue working alongside district leadership to ensure you have the resources, communication, and encouragement needed to be successful.

Throughout your first year, we'll check in regularly, celebrate milestones, help navigate challenges, and remain a trusted resource as you grow in your role. Our goal is not simply to help you find your next position—it's to help you thrive in it.

Some of the most meaningful moments in education happen outside the spotlight—a student communicating a need, mastering a new skill, building confidence, or taking an important step toward greater independence.

As a Special Populations Support Specialist , you'll help create those moments every day. Your flexibility, compassion, and commitment will directly impact students while helping schools provide exceptional support to every learner.

Thrive Education Partners connects exceptional educators with schools and families seeking thoughtful, student-centered professionals.

We believe great education is deeply relational. Our mission is to connect outstanding educators with meaningful opportunities where they can make a lasting impact while feeling supported every step of the way.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required
• Experience as a paraprofessional, instructional assistant, Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), ABA therapist, or student support professional
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and school staff
• Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
• Ability to adapt to changing school assignments and student needs
• Ability to meet all district employment requirements, including a background check

• Special Education certification or licensure
• Experience implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
• ABA experience or behavior intervention training
• Experience collaborating with multidisciplinary teams in a school setting