NOW HIRING for 2026-2027
SpEd/Behavior Support Paraprofessional
Term: 08/04/2026-06/04/2027
Do you crave a diverse learning environment in the city center, made up of a crew that believes in deeper learning, provides coaching and robust professional development for teachers, and takes learning beyond the classroom and into the real world? At DDES, we believe that all students deserve access to rigorous, engaging learning experiences, and we provide opportunities for meaningful work.
The Downtown Denver Expeditionary School (DDES) is a K-5 public charter school in the portfolio of Denver Public Schools. DDES was founded by a group of parents, community members, and business leaders seeking a high-performing EL Education (formerly Expeditionary Learning) school to serve a diverse range of families who live, work, or learn in downtown Denver. DDES is part of a network of schools that challenge students to think critically and take active roles in their classrooms and communities, resulting in higher achievement and greater engagement in school.
Our Approach
- The city is our campus: Students interact with their community through fieldwork and service-learning.
- Real-world learning: Students tackle real-world problems through multi-subject learning expeditions and produce high-quality work to present to authentic audiences.
- Whole Child Education: Social-emotional learning (SEL) and character development are core components of our curriculum, emphasized in daily Crew blocks, restorative practices, and adventure trips for all grade levels.
- Diverse by Design: DDES is committed to becoming a fully integrated K-5 public school, both racially and socio-economically. We focus on anti-racist practices, culturally responsive curriculum, and partnerships with BIPOC professionals to enrich our students’ learning.
Position Overview
The SpEd/Behavior Support Paraprofessional supports assigned students academically and behaviorally throughout the school day. This includes implementing Behavior Intervention Plans in alignment with the Neurosequential Model of Education. Responsibilities range from relationship-building activities to social-emotional skill-building and de-escalation techniques. The role is approximately 33-40 hours per week, with the option to work additional hours in DDES’s aftercare program.
Primary Responsibilities
- Support and implement the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics.
- Provide direct intervention during crises and work proactively with all staff.
- Assist in therapeutic classroom planning and provide one-on-one support to students.
- Manage student behaviors and safety in various settings, including transitions and playgrounds.
- Lead small group sessions for academic and social-emotional learning (SEL).
Compensation & Benefits
- Starting pay range: $22.00-25.75/hr.
- Step and lane system: Recognizes dedication and mastery of skills.
- Comprehensive medical and dental plan: 100% paid by DDES.
- PERA retirement plan: With employer contributions.
- Parking: 100% covered by DDES.
- Generous paid time off: 48 hours of paid sick time, 40 hours of PTO, plus holidays and seasonal breaks.
- Flexible Savings Account options for medical and childcare.
- Free on-site aftercare: If your child attends DDES.
Professional Growth & Development
- Two-week summer PD institute.
- Weekly professional development for Teaching Assistants.
- Opportunities for lead teacher roles and tuition assistance through the TA/Para to Teacher pipeline program.
- Training in restorative practices, the Neurosequential Model in Education, and culturally responsive classroom techniques.
Our Culture
At DDES, we don’t just accept differences — we celebrate them, support them, and thrive on them for the benefit of our employees, students, and community. DDES seeks to recruit individuals of diverse backgrounds and support the retention and advancement of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) within our organization. We are inclusive of people regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, marital status, age, physical abilities, political affiliation, or religious beliefs. All employees are valued, included, and supported.
Ideal Candidates Will Possess:
- A desire to continuously improve and expand your skillset.
- Knowledge of child development, behavior regulation, and relationship-building best practices.
- A passion for working with young students and promoting inquiry-based learning.
- A commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the classroom.
- Ability to build strong relationships with students and foster family engagement.
- A proactive, positive mindset with the ability to take initiative.
Necessary Qualifications:
- 48+ university/college semester hours OR ability to pass the WorkKeys test within 60 days of hire.
- Ability to pass state, federal, and TRAILS (The Facility Child Abuse and Neglect) criminal background checks.
Does it sound like a fit?
DDES conducts a recruiting process involving initial phone interviews, in-person interviews, and background and reference checks.
To initiate the process, please submit a DDES General Application, and we will be in touch soon. Copy & Paste: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScBcPM9FKQ_sTq3sLTYtOc7NOHepZtWy9kQMnch-GtJ3sEA7A/viewform
You will need the following to complete the application:
- Updated resume.
- 20 minutes to answer long-form questions.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $22.00 - $25.75 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
