Job Title:
Paraprofessional/Teacher Assistant - Center Based, Special Assignment (EFL, ED, Speech, PK-Special Education, Kindergarten - Significant Needs)
Salary Schedule & Range:
Classified: Pay Grade V/5
CDE CODE:
FLSA Status:
Exempt Non Exempt ??
EEO CODE:
Work Calendar:
153 days
WORKERS' COMP CODE:
Prepared/Revised Date:
February 2026
POSITION SUMMARY – Describe general objectives. Include the purpose of the position, expected outcomes and results, and an overview of areas of accountability.
The Paraprofessional/Teacher Assistant provides instructional, behavioral, and personal support to students with significant learning, communication, and behavioral needs in center-based special education programs. Working under the direction of licensed teachers and related service providers, this position assists with implementing individualized education plans (IEPs), adapting instructional materials, reinforcing academic and social-emotional skills, and supporting student participation in classroom activities. The paraprofessional helps maintain a safe, structured learning environment and may assist with personal care, communication supports, and mobility needs while promoting student independence and positive behavior. This role contributes to the overall educational program by supporting teachers, preparing materials, supervising students, and helping ensure that students with disabilities have meaningful access to instruction and school activities in Morgan County School District Re-3.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES – Describe each of the basic functions and responsibilities of the job
-
Assists teachers and related service providers in delivering instructional support to students with disabilities in both special education and general education settings;
-
Adapts instructional materials and classroom activities to meet individual student learning levels and support implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs);
-
Reinforces academic, behavioral, communication, and social-emotional skills through small group instruction or one-on-one support using modeling, guided practice, and individualized assistance;
-
Supports student learning through adapted assignments, assistive technology, alternative communication methods (e.g., sign language or communication devices), and other specialized instructional strategies;
-
Monitors and supports student behavior and social interactions; implements behavior plans and classroom management strategies consistent with teacher direction and district expectations;
-
Supervises students to ensure safety in classrooms, hallways, playgrounds, lunchrooms, during transitions, on field trips, and while boarding or exiting school buses;
-
Assists with the administration of classroom assessments and supports data collection related to student progress;
-
Provides support for student health, hygiene, and personal care needs as required, which may include toileting, diapering, feeding, dressing, lifting, wheelchair assistance, or basic first aid, while promoting student independence when possible;
-
Prepares instructional materials and assists with classroom organization, including copying, laminating, assembling learning materials, organizing supplies, and maintaining learning centers;
-
Completes clerical tasks and assists teachers with documentation, grading, and other classroom-related paperwork;
-
Monitors student health and safety and promptly communicates concerns to appropriate staff;
-
Participates in staff meetings, team meetings, professional development, and IEP meetings as directed;
-
Performs other duties as assigned to support the instructional program and the needs of students with disabilities in Morgan County School District Re-3.
MINIMUM EDUCATION OR FORMAL TRAINING – Describe the minimum education required for the job
High school diploma or equivalent.
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE __ Describe the minimum experience required for the job
-
Willingness to work with students receiving special education services (training opportunities provided).
PREFERRED EDUCATION, FORMAL TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE – Describe additional desired education or experience (above & beyond requirements)
-
Demonstrated work experience in a K-12 setting with students receiving special education services
-
Demonstrated biliteracy in Spanish and English, including the ability to read, write, and communicate professionally in both languages, is preferred.
LICENSES & CERTIFICATION – Include licensure and certification requirements, if applicable
-
CPR and First Aid certifications are required within 3 months after entering the position;
-
Universal Precautions training preferred;
-
Crisis Prevention Intervention Training preferred.
KNOWLEDGE & OTHER QUALIFICATIONS – Describe specific knowledge and qualifications required for the job
-
Ability to diffuse and manage volatile and stressful situations with students;
-
Knowledge of child development, behavioral management, and age-appropriate instructional techniques preferred;
-
Strong oral and written communication and interpersonal skills;
-
Oral and written English language skills;
-
Customer service, public relations, and interpersonal relations skills;
-
Ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the job;
-
Ability to manage multiple tasks with frequent interruptions;
-
Ability to use District computer systems for basic word processing, e-mail, and data entry, as well as record work hours and/or absences on District time management programs;
-
Ability to maintain professional working relationships with all District staff and community members, and be part of a team;
-
Excellent communication and conflict resolution skills;
-
Ability to effectively communicate with parents, staff, and the community;
-
Ability to maintain honesty and integrity in all aspects of the job;
-
Ability and willingness to adhere to attendance requirements, including regular and punctual employee presence;
-
Ability to promote and follow Morgan County School District’s Board of Education policies, Superintendent policies, and building and department procedures;
-
Ability to communicate, interact, and work effectively and cooperatively with people from diverse ethnic and educational backgrounds;
-
Ability to recognize the importance of safety in the workplace, follow safety rules, practice safe work habits, utilize appropriate safety equipment, and report unsafe conditions to the appropriate administrator.
EQUIPMENT & VEHICLES USED – Include the equipment and vehicles used, if applicable
-
Operating knowledge of and experience with personal computers and peripherals;
-
Operating knowledge of and experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and/or other software packages;
-
Basic operating knowledge of and experience with typical office equipment, such as telephones, copiers, fax machines, email, etc.
-
Operating knowledge of district information technology systems and any other department-specific software and equipment.
ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
None
Under 1/3
1/3 to 2/3
Over 2/3
Hand and finger dexterity
X
None
Under 1/3
1/3 to 2/3
Over 2/3
Reach with hands and arms
X
Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
X
None
Under 1/3
1/3 to 2/3
Over 2/3
None
Under 1/3
1/3 to 2/3
Over 2/3
Use Interpersonal Skills
X
None
Under 1/3
1/3 to 2/3
Over 2/3
Wet or humid conditions (non-weather)
X
Work near moving mechanical parts
X
Work in high, precarious places
X
Fumes or airborne particles
X
Toxic or caustic chemicals
X
Outdoor weather conditions
X
Extreme cold (non-weather)
X
Extreme heat (non-weather)
X
Risk of electrical shock
X
VISION DEMANDS
REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB
No special vision requirements
Close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less)
X
Distance vision (clear vision at 20 feet or more)
X
Color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors)
X
Ability to adjust focus
X
NOISE LEVEL
The level of noise is typical in the work environment for this job
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. This job description is not intended to create any express or implied contract of employment or expectancy of continued employment for any definite term.
