Paraprofessional

Kindergarten Paraprofessional

The Kindergarten Paraprofessional provides assistance to the teacher in any and all tasks regarded as necessary in the conduct of a class both in and outside of the classroom and school building; maintaining appropriate and safe classroom activities and environment in order that students may learn. Salary: Commensurate with experience. Starting salary begins at $34,518.00. Compensation package includes the following benefits: New Jersey pension enrollment for retirement (TPAF/PERS/DCRP) Eligibility for health, vision and dental coverage, 403(b) plan, and flexible spending accounts, all subject to plan terms Paid time off (PTO) earned on an accrual basis as per negotiated Collective Bargaining Agreement Tuition Reimbursement as outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement Bargaining Unit: Orange Education Association

Qualifications

1. At least two (2) years of study at an institution of higher education; obtained an associate's (or higher) degree; or met a rigorous standard of quality and demonstrated, through a formal state or local assessment, knowledge of and the ability to assist in instructing, reading, writing, and mathematics (or, as appropriate, reading readiness, writing readiness, and mathematics readiness.) 2. Experience working with students either through voluntary or civic programs. 3. Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing, using proper grammar and vocabulary. 4. Hold and maintain a valid driver's license with no serious violations (if applicable to assignment). 5. Have excellent integrity and demonstrate good moral character and initiative. 6. Exhibit a personality that demonstrates enthusiasm and interpersonal skills to relate well with students, staff, administration, parents and the community. 7. Provide proof of U. S. citizenship or legal resident alien status by completing Federal Form I-9 in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. 8. Provide evidence that a criminal record history check has been conducted and clearance has been given by the Department of Education, or, during the initial six month period provide a sworn statement that the individual has not been convicted of a crime or a disorderly persons offense in accordance with 18A:6-7.1. 9. Provide evidence that health is adequate to fulfill the job functions and responsibilities with reasonable accommodation pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 12101 and in accordance with N.J.A.C. 6:3-4A.4. 10. Pass the State required Mantoux Intradermal Tuberculin Test as required by N.J.A.C. 6:3-4A.4. 11. Such other qualifications as the Board may find appropriate.

Job Functions and Responsibilities

1. Under the supervision of the classroom teacher, works with small groups of students to reinforce instruction and activities initially introduced by the teacher. 2. Assists the student(s) in such physical tasks as putting on and taking off underwear (including diapers) and outerwear, moving from room to room, using the lavatory, etc. 3. Provides students with educational assistance when requested by the classroom teacher. 4. Assists the teacher in making available a wide range of teaching materials and equipment, including reading and math materials at many levels, instructional games, resource materials, etc. 5. Assists with the administration of district assessments. 6. Works closely with the classroom teacher in order to help the student(s) maintain satisfactory class work, homework, and behavior. 7. Assists individual students in locating reference materials and other instructional materials. 8. Assists students in making proper use of center equipment and materials. 9. Assists the classroom teacher in preparing and maintaining educational displays which reinforce important parts of the curriculum. 10. Assists the classroom teacher in activities and curriculum implementation, as requested. 11. Assists the classroom teacher in maintaining a creative and effective environment for learning through functional and attractive displays, student displays, bulletin boards and interest centers. 12. Stays abreast of new kindergarten curriculum, reading and math programs, strategies and activities to promote student progress by attending district and school-wide professional development programs. 13. Completes mandated training as required by law. 14. Notifies immediately appropriate personnel of evidence of substance abuse, child abuse, child neglect, severe medical or social conditions, potential suicide or individuals appearing to be under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or anabolic steroids. 15. Attendance compliance to mandated district professional development days and sessions. 16. Completes and adheres to district mandates as directed by the District Superintendent or designee; i.e. non-negotiables, bulletins, emails, goals and objectives, etc. 17. Performs all other duties within the scope of the job description as assigned by the classroom teacher and/or principal.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job and are not meant to be all inclusive. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job. Unless reasonable accommodations can be made, while performing this job the staff member shall: 1. Use strength to lift items needed to perform the functions of the job. 2. Sit, stand and walk for required periods of time. 3. Speak, hear and demonstrate evidence of understanding. 4. Use close vision, peripheral vision and depth perception along with the ability to focus vision. 5. Communicate effectively in English, using proper grammar and vocabulary. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication. 6. Reach with hands and arms and use hands and fingers to handle objects and operate tools, computers, and/or controls.

Environmental Demands

The environmental demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential responsibilities and functions of the job and are not meant to be all inclusive. 1. Exposure to a variety of childhood and adult diseases and illnesses. 2. Occasional exposure to a variety of weather conditions. 3. Exposure to heated/air conditioned and ventilated facilities. 4. Exposure to a building in which a variety of chemical substances are used for cleaning, instruction, and/or operation of equipment. 5. Function in a workplace that is usually moderately quiet but that can be noisy at times.

Evaluation

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy and/or State Law. The Orange Board of Education is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.