About Schenectady City Schools

With a population of nearly 10,000 students, the Schenectady City School District is one of the largest in the Capital Region. With an incredibly diverse population we are committed to ensuring that all children feel valued, are safe and will learn. We place the highest priority on a culture of equity, ensuring that race, economics, and disability are never predictors of student achievement. Every child in our district counts and will be supported each step of the way, along the path to graduation.

Special Education Paraprofessional Role

This position reports to the school principal and Pupil Services Departmentin a midsize urban school district located in the Capital Region of Upstate New York. The Special Education Paraprofessional will play a critical role in assisting teachers in facilitating quality academic and enrichment activities for students in need of targeted comprehensive supports. The Special Education Paraprofessional will assist the Teacher in creating a learning environment that will enhance the literacy skills of all students. The Special Education Paraprofessional will implement and assist with all non-instructional duties as assigned by supervisor. The Special Education Paraprofessional will assist teacher or supervisor in implementing the instructional program and spend the majority of their time in direct work with students. This position requires a high degree of flexibility, professionalism and culturally responsive disposition.

Special Education Paraprofessional Expectations

• Assist teacher with the organization of instructional materials and learning centers as planned and directed by the classroom teacher;
• Work with individual or small groups to reinforce skills and concepts previously taught under the supervision of the classroom teacher;
• Will work with students to help achieve IEP goal activities under the supervision of the teacher;
• Will assist students with education and therapy goals by helping them stay on track, repeating instructions from teacher, scribing, etc;
• To assist the teacher with the monitoring of student activities in the classroom, halls, and on the playground and during arrival and dismissal periods;
• To assist the teacher during times of crisis typified by students' outbursts or disruptive behavior;
• To assist the teacher in attending to the physical needs of students, such as helping with clothing or attending to personal hygiene and toileting as needed;
• Assist with arrangement and supervision of field trips, class projects and special programs;
• To assist the teacher, after appropriate training, to operate audiovisual equipment as the activity requires;
• To assist the teacher in maintaining conditions affecting the safety and welfare of the students;
• Breakfast and/or lunch duties to include supervision of playground;
• Escorting students as directed by supervisor;
• Monitor halls, bathrooms, cafeteria, playground, and all outside areas within the immediate vicinity of the building;
• All other non-instructional support needed by immediate supervisor;

• Collaborates with teachers and leadership to promote a positive and rigorous learning environment.

Special Education Paraprofessional Key Qualities

• Reflects on practices and modify as necessary to meet the unique needs of all students;
• Passionate about developing relationships with students;
• Set high expectations for students;
• Demonstrates for students the importance of being life-long learners;
• Ability to motivate in a team-oriented, collaborative environment;

• Designated champion for every child in your classroom;
• Demonstrate perseverance and be proactive in supporting students in and outside of the classroom;
• Establish daily practices that support students in enjoying the experience of learning making human connections;
• Establish daily practices that remind every student they become the best they can possibly be;

• Cares about students' academic and social emotional needs;
• Strives for 100% attendance;
• Dedication to understanding the needs of our students;

• Collaborate with teachers regarding daily and weekly plans and expectations
• Lead a variety of small and large group activities daily;
• Communicate in a proactive and positive manner with Principal and colleagues;
• Supervise and engage students during meals and recess time;
• Build student relationships and a sense of community;

• Flexibility in thinking and acting; pitch in when and where needed, so as to ensure a safe and productive day for all students.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED);
• Experience working in schools with children and families to support diverse learners.
• Minimum qualifications preferred by not a must.

The Schenectady City School District is committed to hiring members of protected classes and residents of the City of Schenectady. For more information on the District's recruitment and hiring plan, please contact the Human Resources Office at 881-2000 ext. 40133. The Schenectady City School District does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, marital status, veteran status, national origin, race or gender. This policy is in compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Regulations and By-Laws of the Board of Education of the Schenectady City School District.