Company Overview
Jacksonville School for Autism (JSA) is a dedicated not-for-profit school committed to empowering children with autism through innovative, integrative education and therapy services. Our passionate team works collaboratively with parents and community professionals to foster growth, independence, and lifelong skills for our students.
CLASSROOM PARAPROFESSIONAL / TEACHING ASSISTANT
Jacksonville School for Autism (JSA) is seeking compassionate, energetic, and motivated Classroom Paraprofessionals to support students with Autism Spectrum Disorder and related communication and behavioral challenges. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who enjoy working with students, value teamwork, and want to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young adults.
At JSA, we believe in supporting our staff as much as we support our students. Employees enjoy a collaborative team environment, professional growth opportunities, paid time off, paid holidays, and a school-based schedule that promotes work-life balance.
Our staff work alongside teachers, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, behavior specialists, and families to help students build academic, social, vocational, and independent living skills.
POSITION SUMMARY
A Classroom Paraprofessional provides educational support services to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder and related disabilities. Paraprofessionals work under the supervision of the Classroom Teacher and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to support student growth, independence, and success.
QUALIFICATIONS
- High School Diploma or equivalent required
- Experience working with children, individuals with disabilities, education, ABA, childcare, or related fields preferred
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
- Ability to accept feedback and implement recommendations
- Ability to interact professionally with students, families, staff, and community partners
- Proficiency with Google Workspace preferred
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
- Ability to pass a Level II Background Screening
- Key Responsibilities
- Support students throughout the school day in classroom, community, and vocational settings
- Follow classroom schedules, zoning procedures, and daily routines
- Assist with academic instruction, independent work systems, social skills activities, and daily living skills instruction
- Utilize TEACCH-based strategies and structured teaching practices
- Assist with data collection and documentation of student progress
- Support small-group and individual instruction as directed by the Classroom Teacher
- Follow student behavior intervention plans and classroom management procedures
- Maintain open communication with teachers, therapists, administrators, and families
- Participate in team meetings, staff meetings, and professional development activities
- Assist with community-based instruction, vocational training, and off-campus activities
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe learning environment
- Adhere to confidentiality requirements and all JSA policies and procedures
- Maintain professionalism in all interactions and communications
- Support students with personal care needs, including feeding, toileting, hygiene, and other activities of daily living as needed while maintaining student dignity and respect
- May be asked to drive a JSA vehicle and assist students during community-based instruction and field trips
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand, bend, kneel, sit on the floor, and actively engage with students throughout the day
- Ability to run, jump, and respond quickly during student support situations
- Ability to push or pull up to 75 pounds when necessary
- Ability to lift or support up to 25 pounds
- Ability to safely assist students during behavioral, safety, or emergency situations
Why Join JSA?
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Paid Holidays
- School calendar schedule with designated holiday breaks
- Professional Training and Development Opportunities
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligible Employer
- Access to a multidisciplinary team including educators, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and behavior specialists
- Collaborative and supportive work environment
- Opportunities for career growth and advancement
- Company-sponsored staff events and team-building activities
- Ongoing mentorship, coaching, and support from leadership
- Opportunity to gain experience in special education, transition services, vocational training, and autism-specific programming
- Meaningful work that positively impacts students and families every day
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Complete the 40-Hour Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) training course through Autism Partnership Foundation within 180 days of hire
- Training may be completed during designated planning periods as approved
- Adhere to all mandated reporting requirements regarding suspected abuse, abandonment, or neglect
- Maintain all required certifications and trainings as assigned
Jacksonville School for Autism is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a supportive and inclusive educational environment for students and staff.
Pay: From $16.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- AD&D insurance
- Bereavement leave
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Are you able to pass a Level 2 Background Check as required for this position?
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Work Location: In person
