Education Support Professional / Paraprofessional

Education Support Professional / Paraprofessional (Special Education: Developmental/Cognitive Disabilities DCD) JobID: 1929 District : Intermediate School District 917 Position Opening Date Posted : June 10, 2026 Position Title : Education Support Professional / Paraprofessional Assignment Location : Lakeville North High School, Lakeville, MN (Dakota Alternative for Severely Handicapped (DASH) Program) Hours per Day : 7.5 Schedule : 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Monday–Friday Anticipated Start Date : August 26, 2026 Starting Pay Rate : $22.55 per hour (Education Support Professionals Contract) Position Overview Under the guidance of the classroom teacher and direct supervision of program assistant directors/principals, paraprofessionals aid students in meeting their individualized education plan (IEP) goals across educational, communication, emotional, physical, and behavioral areas. They work individually and in small groups, model respectful communication and competency, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to apply lesson plans, behavioral interventions, and support services. This role ensures student safety, promotes appropriate behaviors, and contributes to a positive team environment as mandated by District policy and State/Federal laws. Responsibilities Assist students with severe physical and cognitive disabilities under the direction of licensed classroom teachers, specialists, and school nurses. Support classroom teachers in providing instruction and managing student educational programming. Adapt instructional materials, equipment, or strategies to provide differentiated instruction and meet student needs. Implement charting, data collection, paperwork preparation, and other monitoring techniques to track student progress in behavioral, social, and educational areas. Assist licensed staff in classroom management and behavioral interventions, creating a learning environment. Use proactive behavior management techniques, reinforcing positive behaviors, applying de‑escalation and redirecting inappropriate behaviors; may be required to use physical restraints. Support students in daily routines, including eating, toileting, positioning, and range‑of‑motion activities; escort students during arrival, departure, and to therapy or special classes; supervise in lunch, playground, gym, and off‑site activities. Facilitate activities with students or small groups under the direction of the teacher, therapist, or related services staff. Help students develop appropriate social skills and behavior through modeling, lessons, incentive plans, and charting. Maintain safety for all students and the environment. Collaborate with related service personnel, teachers, fellows, and program staff to meet student needs and foster a positive work environment. Participate in training/in‑service assignments as required by the contract. Perform other job‑related duties as assigned. Qualifications Willingness and ability to work with students receiving high‑level special education services. Two years of study at an institution of higher education with 60 completed semester credits and an Associate’s (or higher) degree, or a passing score on the ParaPro assessment. Previous experience working with children or individuals with special needs and basic knowledge of teaching practices, methods, and techniques. Effective teamwork with staff, parents, and community through positive relationships. Willingness to complete training in Professional Crisis Management and implement restrictive procedures. Ability to obtain PCA certification from the Department of Human Services. Good oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills maintained during high‑stress and crisis situations. Ability and desire to work with assistive technology. Basic computer and email skills; proficiency in core educational subject areas. Physical Requirements Lift up to 50 pounds with a two‑to‑three person lift. Support a student’s full body weight up to adult size. Frequently stand, walk, lift, bend, lean, and perform repetitive motions. Occasionally sit, stoop, kneel, and crouch. Tolerate sudden jarring movements. Work occasionally in outdoor weather conditions and with exposure to bloodborne pathogens; may require personal protective equipment. Work in moderately noisy settings. Equal Opportunity Employer Intermediate School District 917 is an equal opportunity educator and employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Intermediate School District 917