At Stepping Stones, we are committed to serving the students of our community who are seeking an educational experience that supports their needs, abilities, and goals. We do not simply educate, we help each child no matter their challenges, BLOOM. The ideal Stepping Stones teacher possesses a strong background in special education, classroom management, innovative instruction, and curriculum implementation.

Summary

The Academy paraprofessional provides assistance to the lead teachers of neurodivergent and physically divergent students, supports learning, and works toward initiating strategies that result in a higher incidence of positive behavior and increased student achievement.

Essential Duties

The Stepping Stones Academy paraprofessional:

Fosters positive relationships with students, faculty, staff, therapists, and parents, guardians, and caregivers

Executes lessons and materials, under the guidance of the lead teacher, to meet individual student needs

Utilizes special methodology for instruction to support student progress using standards as is appropriate and have been issued by the school

Aids in the execution, monitoring, and review of the Student Success Plan for each student in class, as applicable

Addresses the unique needs students in class, i.e., lifting and positioning moderately intellectually disabled, orthopedically impaired, severe, and profoundly disabled students

Administers evaluations of student progress, as indicated by the lead teacher, on an ongoing basis

Helps lead teacher maintain appropriate records

Works with parents/guardians in all aspects of the student’s educational program

Facilitates home-school communication by such means as holding conferences, telephoning, and sending written communications, as instructed by lead teacher

Uses technology to support instruction

Serves as a resource to faculty, administrators, and related services personnel

Performs other duties as assigned by the appropriate administrator and by the lead teacher

Supervises students throughout the day

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Proven communication and instructional strategies

Classroom management skills

Knowledge of IDEA and ADA laws and regulations

Excellent communication skills both orally and in writing

Excellent organizational skills

Demonstrated appropriate rapport with children, parents/caregivers, and colleagues

Knowledge of basic first aid methods, techniques for positioning and moving physically challenged students

Physical Demands

Ability to lift and carry 30 pounds and above with assistance

Ability to lift and carry 5-30 pounds unassisted

Push or pull 30 pounds and above

May require stooping or crouching

Assist with diapering, catheterization, lifting, positioning, tube feeding, and assist with eating and toileting

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Education or Special Education degree preferred

Evidence of educational coursework in education and special education required

10 hours of annual professional development per year

DECAL Bright from the Start Health and Safety training required