Early Childhood/Elementary Paraprofessional

SUMMARY : The paraprofessional assists in the preschool classroom, on the school bus before and after school, and provides 1-1 support to students as needed during the school day. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Report for duty by 7:30 a.m. and remain at school until 4:30 p.m., in order to assist students on our district bus four days per week (Monday-Thursday). Assist in the educational and social development of students under the direction and guidance of the lead teacher. Required to be on the bus for pick-up and drop-off of students; assisting with safety equipment and 5 point restraint systems. Assist the teacher and students with general instructional and assistive technology devices. Encourage students to exercise independence, autonomy, and responsibility Assist with classroom management and enforcement of rules. Provide prompt communication and feedback regarding student progress, behavior data, and effectiveness of interventions. Collect and record accurate data related to behavior goals and therapeutic objectives, and assist in monitoring student progress. Complete Handle With Care training and participate in annual recertification, and attend staff and team meetings. Complete 10 credits hours of professional development each calendar year on designated topics including Pediatric First Aid and CPR. Maintain confidentiality regarding school/workplace matters, assist with student records, and perform other duties as assigned. Assist in the maintenance of an orderly classroom and a healthy, safe, and positive learning environment. Provide support for students inside and outside the classroom to enable them to fully participate in activities.​​​​​​​ Assist the teacher in planning, preparing, and implementing daily activities. Implement individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and Individual Education Plans (IEPs) with fidelity in collaboration with certified staff and mental health providers. Teach and practice emotional regulation and coping skill development through modeling, reinforcement, and therapeutic strategies. Apply de-escalation techniques and proactive behavior support strategies to prevent and respond to behavioral crises. Facilitate student transitions between activities and environments, reinforcing expected behaviors and routines. Promote positive behavioral supports during both structured academic time and unstructured settings. Assume responsibility for small groups and 1:1 activities to reinforce learning concepts and help with mastery of skills. OTHER KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Ability to deal with issues in a tactful and respectful manner Ability to maintain safety and promote student dignity during behavioral incidents. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment yet maintain flexibility in thinking and actions. Proficiency in computer/software use including Google Suite, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Zoom. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to understand and follow safety procedures. Ability to understand and follow specific instructions and procedures. Assist children with toileting, handwashing, and basic hygiene. Ability to work cooperatively with others in a team environment. Ability to engage in coaching, consultation, and supervision from district and MARESA staff/admin. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: High School Graduate or earned GED; associates degree preferred for highly qualified individuals Demonstrated ability to work effectively with multiple stakeholders to provide a continuum of services for students Willingness and ability to assist students with challenging behaviors Ability to work in a team centered approach Strong written and verbal communication skills Computer literate PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 60 college credit hours OR Associate Degree OR Michigan Title 1 Paraprofessional Certificate for highly qualified individuals Interest and experience working one-to-one with students and in early childhood settings SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Must keep the affairs of Wells Township School District confidential at all times, adhering to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Physically capable of interacting with students with varying levels of noise throughout the work day. May require limited travel for training and/or field trips. TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 32-40 hours Monday-Thursday of the school year. Must have regular and reliable job attendance, performance, and the physical ability to do the job. Must be able to pass a comprehensive background check. REPORTS TO: Program Administrator of Preschool Classroom or Superintendent of Elementary Classrooms. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS: Commensurate with experience and district pay scale. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Please submit a letter of interest plus contact information for three references by the application deadline to Mike Lepisto, Superintendent at [email protected] . Call 906-238-4200 with any questions. Wells Township School District mailing address is 38211 County Road 426, Arnold, MI 49819. APPLICATION DEADLINE: 1:00 p.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026. Wells Township School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religion, sex, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, military status, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, disability, or any other legally protected status and prohibits unlawful discrimination, including harassment and retaliation, in any education program or activity that it operates, including in admission and employment.