HEAD START PARAEDUCATOR-FLOATING- (VACANT NOW) (#271)

Paraprofessional (Head Start, Title I, Regular Education, and Special Education)

Location:          Site Level School

Reports To:  School Principal

                       (Teacher will provide input for evaluation)

Salary Range:  Per WBR Salary Schedule

Terms of Employment:  9 Months

GENERAL OVERVIEW

      The paraprofessional working in Head Start, Title I, Regular Education or Special Education classrooms shall work directly with students under the direct supervision of the classroom teacher to assist with the effective management/instruction of the class/classes to which he or she is assigned. 

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assists in meeting the instructional needs of the students under the direction of the classroom teacher
• Interacts appropriately with students, and assists in creating an environment conducive to learning
• Helps students with personal possessions
• Assists in maintaining discipline standards according to the regulations of the school system and the assigned teacher
• Assists with handling of specialized equipment, computer, software, assistive language devices, etc. as directed by the classroom teacher
• Attends faculty meetings, parent conferences/meetings, and IEP meetings when requested
• Assists in maintaining classroom equipment and assists in keeping materials of instruction organized and clean
• Maintains student confidentiality
• Accompanies students to other classes, the restroom, recess, etc.
• Assists with feeding, diapering, and toileting, as well as other custodial or health-related duties as required for Head Start students and students with disabilities 
• Makes necessary wheelchair/equipment adjustments and positioning needed throughout the school day
• Lifts and moves students as necessary
• Assists in meeting the medical needs of students with disabilities: catheterization, administration of medication, etc. after proper training is provided
• Becomes knowledgeable of and assists with the implementation of appropriate educational programs/standard
• Participates in grade level/subject areas meetings and /professional development activities 
• Other duties as assigned

    Specific to Paraprofessionals assigned to Head Start, Special Education classes or to other Paraprofessionals who serve in Regular Education or Title I classes that are a part of the Special Education Inclusion program

EVALUATION:

This position shall be evaluated in accordance with the West Baton Rouge Parish School System Personnel Accountability Plan.

SALARY:

Highly Qualified:  As designated by the WBR Salary Schedule 

Non-Highly Qualified: As designated by the WBR Salary Schedule

 PERSONAL TRAITS

Exhibits competency in the following areas:

• Poise and self-confidence
• Enthusiasm and optimism
• Punctuality
• Dependability
• Flexibility
• Willingness to implement recommendations
• Acceptable speech and grammar
• Effective communication with students
• Discreet handling of confidential information
• Unbiased attitude regarding race, sex, creed, religion or disability
• Effective communication with colleagues and other adults

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS- Child Care or Head Start experience and CDA preferred. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Highly Qualified:  Must have accomplished at least one of the following:

1. Passed the Educational Testing Service (ETS) Para-Pro Assessment (ETS Para-Pro Assessment #0755) with a passing score of 450; or
2. Completed two years of full-time study (48 semester credit hours) from a state-approved or regionally accredited institution of higher education (as defined by requirements in No Child Left Behind legislation);or
3. Earned an Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, or Associate of Applied Science degree from a state-approved or regionally accredited institution of higher education.

1. Non-Highly Qualified: (Head Start Only)

1. (I) at least a child development associate (CDA) credential or a state-awarded certificate that meets or exceeds the requirements for a CDA credential;
2. (II) enrolled in a program leading to an associate or baccalaureate degree; or
3. (III) enrolled in a child development associate (CDA) credential program to be completed within 2 years.

• (ADDITIONAL) COMPETENCIES:

1. Provide effective and nurturing teacher-child interactions
2. Plan and implement learning experiences that ensure effective curriculum implementation and use of assessment and promote children’s progress across the standards described in the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework: Ages Birth to Five and applicable state early learning and development standards, including for children with disabilities and dual language learners, as appropriate

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The paraprofessional will work in a climate-controlled environment adhering to the School Board energy policy. Workday consists of regular school hours.  The length of the workday may vary as the result of meetings, evening activities or emergencies.  

COMMUNICATION SKILLS:

The paraprofessional must be able to effectively communicate in English both orally and in writing. Must have the ability to accurately give and receive information via telecommunication system and must be able to communicate successfully with students, teachers, parents, school personnel, and the community.

EQUIPMENT USED:

The paraprofessional must be able to use a telephone, cell phone, fax machine, scanner, audio-visual equipment, PC, PC software, hardware, copy machine, laminator, calculator, and other appropriate machines.

PHYSICAL INVOLVEMENT: 

The paraprofessional should be able to perform these physical activities: standing, walking, reaching, bending, and lifting 40 pounds (sometimes required). Paraprofessionals assigned to special education and Head Start classes must be able to lift students to whom they have been assigned.

MENTAL INVOLVEMENT:

The paraprofessional must be able to assist with the implementation of appropriate educational programs.  Must be able to understand and interpret written and verbal instructions. Must be able to comply with state and parish regulations. 

HUMAN RELATIONS INVOLVEMENT

The paraprofessional must be able to work cooperatively with students, teachers, district personnel and the community.  Must be able to respond appropriately to supervision and accept commendations and recommendations. Must demonstrate sensitivity/understanding in interpersonal relations with persons of diverse cultures/backgrounds.