Special Education Paraprofessional

Special Education ParaprofessionalThe Norman Public Schools are seeking a Special Education Paraprofessional. When applying for this position, please note that if you are recommended for hire, you will be required to apply for Tier 1 certification prior to the start of employment. The certification fee is $12.00 and is paid directly to the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Norman Public Schools personnel will provide detailed instructions during the employee processing phase.Credentials Tier 1 (Title I) Paraprofessional Requirements (Applicant must meet at least one of the following): Completed two years of study at an institution of higher education (minimum of 48 hours of college coursework); or Obtained an associate's degree (or higher); or Taken and passed the WorkKeys, ParaPro, or Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET). An Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Certificate is also required or a willingness to complete the Tier 2 (Special Education) Paraprofessional Requirements and obtain the Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Certificate within 120 days of employment. Failure to meet this requirement may result in termination. An OSBI background check must be completed every five years to remain in compliance. The cost of the background check is the responsibility of the employee. Failure to complete the required background check may impact your employment status.Tier 2 (Special Education) Paraprofessional Requirements (All of the following must be completed within 120 days of employment to obtain and maintain certification.) Once completed, you will need to apply for Tier 2 certification. The certification fee is $12.00 and is paid directly to the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Complete the Oklahoma Special Education Paraprofessional Training at a Career Tech Center, state-approved LEA training, or training modules in PEPPER. Complete and maintain CPR and First Aid certification. Complete training in Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens. Complete an additional six (6) hours of professional development in Universal Precautions/Bloodborne Pathogens each school year following initial certification.Education High school diploma or GED required. College coursework is preferred and may assist in meeting Tier 1 Paraprofessional Requirements. Training/Experience Required Must meet Tier 1 Paraprofessional Requirements. Previous work or volunteer experience with children, teenagers, or clerical duties preferred. Reports to: Building Principal Contract: 175 Days Salary Schedule: Teacher's Assistant FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Essential Job Functions Assist with instruction and activities for individuals or groups as assigned by the teacher. Supervise students in instructional settings, off-campus activities, and non-instructional activities (recess, assemblies, drills, lunch periods, etc.). Supervise students in the teacher's absence. Prepare, create, or adapt instructional materials and teaching aids as directed. Assist students with assignments and help set up or operate instructional equipment. Serve as the main point of contact for substitute teachers. Assist teachers with student behavior management and respond appropriately to student needs. Alert the teacher to any special needs of students. Provide assistance with external feedings (e.g., feeding tubes) or personal care (e.g., toileting, catheterization, diaper changes) as needed. Assist students with boarding or exiting transportation and supervise before or after transport as needed. Perform light housekeeping to maintain a clean and safe classroom environment (e.g., washing dishes, disinfecting surfaces, defrosting freezers). Prepare snacks for students as required. Ride afternoon bus routes to supervise student behavior when assigned. Operate photocopiers, laminators, duplicators, and computers. Assist with obtaining classroom supplies. Assist with compiling and sending home student work or weekly parent communications. Maintain strict confidentiality at all times. Perform other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Strong interpersonal and customer service skills to provide support and handle issues effectively. Ability to comply with all safety policies and procedures to reduce the risk of accidents or injuries. Commitment to maintaining professional attendance, dress standards, and work habits. Demonstrated creativity, initiative, and problem-solving abilities. Ability to exercise discretion, sound judgment, and independent decision-making within job responsibilities.