Description:
TITLE: Education Paraprofessional - Teacher Assistant
REPORTS TO: Education Director
STATUS: Non-Exempt
JOB SUMMARY: The LRA Paraprofessional (Para) assists fellow education staff in providing instructional and behavioral support to students. Each mentors students, participates in curriculum planning and implementation, and helps set the tone for a conducive learning environment. The Para effectively implements teacher-directed lesson plans, adheres to the positive behavior program, and supports various staff and students as needed. Work hours begin at 7:00am to 3:30pm on all instructional days in the dorm; getting the students up, working with them through morning routines and breakfast and escorting them to school on time with everyone smiling. Work hours may be subject to change as the census increases. The Para will follow the School Calendar, including attendance on teacher workdays.
PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS
1. Presents with a Utah Paraprofessional Training Certificate or agrees to complete the certification process; agrees to complete LRA Mentor Training.
2. Demonstrates the ability to intervene and communicate appropriately with adolescents.
3. Delivers specific instructional and behavioral guidance and encouragement as required in IEPs, ISPs and BIPs.
4. Executes lesson plans provided by teachers; may substitute teach and tutor as assigned.
5. Implements and adheres to LRA’s Positive Behavior Program, promoting a culture of respect and discipline.
6. Enforces classroom rules, BIP expectations and provides appropriate feedback to teachers regarding student work.
7. Holds students accountable for behavior in all locations while maintaining appropriate boundaries.
8. Responds promptly and attentively to direct requests or questions from students or other team members.
9. Listens carefully to students and team members, probing to clarify their specific needs or requests.
10. Fosters an inclusive and safe learning environment conducive to student learning and behaving.
11. Contributes relevant suggestions to teachers as they prepare their instructional lesson plans.
12. Works with teachers and other LRA personnel in preparing progress reports to referral sources and parents.
13. Assists students during Speech, Occupational Therapy, off-campus trips and other related services.
14. Complies with requests to work one-on-one with designated students as needed and when needed.
CORE COMPETENCIES
1. Completes work thoroughly, promptly and efficiently; managing multiple tasks as necessary.
2. Analyzes successes and shortcomings, then problem-solves with determination and creativity.
3. Supports approved decisions, responsibly completing tasks with minimal supervision.
4. Holds self, fellow staff, and all students accountable for doing what is required; fulfilling commitments.
5. Makes well-informed decisions, consulting when necessary with others; implementing practical solutions.
6. Communicates collaboratively, acknowledging verbal requests, phone, text, and email messages quickly.
7. Reads and adheres to updated policies and procedures, promptly reporting violations to a supervisor.
8. Maintains confidentiality and models professionalism as a representative of LRA in all locations.
9. Follows all safety regulations and does not hesitate to suggest changes that might improve safety.
10. Pursues continuous professional growth in order to enhance both student and personal performance.
11. Demonstrates an understanding of the LRA Positive Behavior Plan by consistently using it with students.
12. Uses IEP, ISP and BIP objectives when planning instructional, recreation and residential activities.
13. Completes necessary documentation within times specified in policies and procedures.
14. Supports and promotes the LRA values of diversity, equity and inclusion for all staff and students.
15. Greets all visitors, parents and reviewers with a smile and the utmost respect.
16. Models ethical behavior when resolving misunderstandings, disagreements and conflicts.
17. Responds positively to a supervisor's reasonable request to perform other duties.
Requirements:
PAY RATE: $17.00/HR
HOURS: 7am - 3pm at least 2 times a week
Must be 21 or older
QUALIFICATIONS:
a. High School Diploma/GED; Bachelor's degree preferred.
b. Utah State Paraeducator Certificate required.
c. Experience in working with adolescents.
d. Knowledge of human behavior, social interactions, and psychology is beneficial.
e. Strong oral and written communication skills
f. Excellent interpersonal skills with staff and students.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
a. Trained and able to safely manage student behaviors when hands-on is required.
b. Frequent and clear communication, both verbal and written, with team members and employees.
c. Short periods of running.
d. Possible physical restraining of escalated students
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Physically able to bend, stand, stoop, or sit for long periods of time.
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Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
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Push / Pull up to 100 lbs.
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Possible restraining of escalated clients
