School Psychologist Para-educator

Purpose:

               The job of the School Psychologist Para-educator was established for the purposes of assisting a licensed School Psychologist with student evaluations, including testing and behavioral observations.  The para-educator is not involved in psychological counseling or therapy, or in psychological evaluations, and is under the direct supervision of a licensed school psychologist. Para-educators not holding a baccalaureate degree must follow the restrictions and supervision requirements above AND are limited to performing tasks such as gathering assessment data for purposes of evaluation, record review, ecological or computer based observation, and administering locally developed curriculum based measurements (CBMs).

This position may work with students in Early Childhood settings, Elementary or Secondary classrooms and resource rooms.  Additionally, this position may work with students with mild to moderate disabilities whom may also be deaf/hard of hearing, have visual impairments, and or other disabilities. 

Responsible to: School Psychologist, District Administration; SEK 637 Administration

Experience:  Job related experience is desired.

Education/Qualifications:  Bachelor’s degree from an accredited University (preferably in Psychology or Education). All para educator positions are considered non-exempt, at will positions. 

Clearances: (Required upon offer of/and acceptance of employment)

• Criminal Background check
• Health and Inoculation Certificate on file in Central Office

FLSA Status:  Non-Exempt

Wages:  Based on hourly rate, number of days worked and completion of required trainings (9-month school calendar)

Essential Functions:

• Assist the assigned school psychologist in administering individual tests to help determine specific academic and behavioral needs of students.
• Provide the assigned school psychologist observational data to be used when determining individual needs of students.
• Assist the assigned school psychologist in creating a service schedule to ensure that timelines are met.
• Assist in establishing a positive learning environment, and respond to the individual needs of students.
• Communicate effectively with students and providers in assigned buildings.
• React to change productively and handle other tasks as assigned.
• Adhere to district, State, and Federal confidentiality policies.
• Comply with all district policies, rules, and regulations.
• The ability to work cooperatively and demonstrate effective interpersonal relationships with other paras, professionals, community agencies, and other groups.  
• Use of appropriate behavior management techniques to maintain a positive climate for learning.
• Faithful, daily attendance and adherence to work schedules.
• Observe all district and interlocal policies during activities.
• Restrict cell phone usage to break and lunch times.
• Performs other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the educational team.

Job Requirements:  Minimum Qualifications:

SKILLS are required to perform multiple tasks with a potential need to upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions.  Specific skill based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include:  adhering to safety practices, operating standard office equipment including using pertinent software applications; preparing and maintaining accurate records; and using district approved crisis intervention techniques. 

KNOWLEDGE is required to perform basic math; read and follow instructions; and understand complex, multi-step written and oral instructions.  Specific knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include:  instructional procedures and practices; age appropriate student activities; safety practices and procedures; conflict resolution; and stages of child development/behavior; and safe handling of blood-borne pathogens and crisis de-escalation techniques.

ABILITY is required to schedule activities, collect data; and use basic, job-related equipment.  Flexibility is required to work with others; work with data utilizing defined and similar processes; and operate equipment using standardized methods.  Ability is also required to work with a diversity of individuals.  Problem solving is required to identify issues and create action plans.  Specific ability-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include:  communicating/collaboration with diverse groups; maintaining confidentiality; setting priorities; working as part of a team; working with constant interruptions; and the ability to take constructive feedback.

Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions:

The usual and customary methods of performing the job’s functions frequently require the following physical demands:  walking, sitting, standing, lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling, climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling, and fine finger dexterity.  This position may also require some travel, the ability to work indoors/outdoors year around, as well as the ability to work in noisy, stressful, and crowded environments.