Paraprofessional

Job Title: Educational Assistant Exemption Status: Nonexempt- Classified

Reports to: Principal and Teacher(s) Assigned Date Revised: 08/07/2026


Dept./School: Ripley Middle School

Primary Purpose:


Provide instructional assistance to students under the direct supervision of a certified teacher. Assist in preparing, conducting, and managing of classroom activities.

Qualifications:

Education:


High school diploma or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate


Associate's degree, two years of study at an institution of higher learning, or have met formal academic assessment as required by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) or


Successful score of 456 on the Para-professional Exam if less than 48 credit hours of college.

Special Knowledge/Skills:


Ability to assist in instructing reading, writing, and mathematics or other subjects as needed


Ability to work well with children


Ability to communicate effectively

Experience:


1 year experience working with children preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Instructional Support

1. Provide instruction to students under the direction of teacher; work with individual students or small groups.
2. Assist teacher in preparing instructional materials and classroom displays.
3. Assist with administration and scoring of objective testing instruments or work assignments.
4. Help maintain neat and orderly classroom.
5. Help with inventory, care, and maintenance of equipment.
6. Help teacher keep administrative records and prepare required reports.
7. Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers.

Student Management

1. Help supervise students throughout school day, inside and outside classroom. This includes lunchroom, bus, and playground duty.
2. Make teacher aware of special needs or problems of individual students.

Other

1. Participate in staff development training programs to improve job performance.
2. Participate in faculty meeting and special events as assigned.
3. Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including computer; standard instructional equipment


Posture: Moderate standing; occasional kneeling, squatting, bending, and stooping


Motion: Moderate walking


Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds)


Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise


Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress