Job Description:
Title: Paraprofessional
Cornerstones of Care
PURPOSE
The Paraprofessional assists the classroom teacher in classroom management and supervision of students in a small special education classroom.
SANCTUARY MODEL
Cornerstones of Care is committed to the Sanctuary Model, a comprehensive trauma-informed method for creating change and helping individuals heal from traumatic experiences. It is a whole system approach built around the framework of SELF (Safety, Emotional Management, Loss, and Future). It is designed to facilitate the development of structures, processes, and behaviors on the part of staff, children and the community as a whole that can counteract the physical and psychological wounds suffered by the children, youth, and families in our care. The ultimate outcome of a trauma informed philosophy is the creation of safe, therapeutic living and working environments for our clients, families, agency members and ancillary providers which espouse the proactive principles of growth, change, and empowerment of the individual for the betterment of the community. Each employee has the responsibility to demonstrate the tenets of the Sanctuary Model in their work with clients and in their interaction with other team members. Demonstrating these tenets is considered an essential responsibility for all staff in all positions in our company.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide classroom management in a small special education classroom using techniques to promote learning.
• Each classroom has a 1:6 student ratio with a certified teacher and para-educator.
• The twelve student classroom is structured with the emphasis on improving student behavior to promote learning.
• Assist the classroom teacher in performing classroom duties, for example grading.
• Provide supervision during school hours including breakfast, lunch recess, and in teacher’s absence.
• Implement activities developed by classroom teachers.
• Provide individual instruction to students.
• Assist the teacher in record keeping and class preparation.
• Adhere to the academic school calendar and schedule.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE

• Knowledgeable in behavior management and child development.
• Able to read, write, and report legibly in all required reporting systems.
• Able to maintain client files including filing information.

REQUIRED SKILLS OR ABILITIES

• Able to operate office equipment: copier, fax machine, etc.
• Able to pass specialized training in SCM, First Aid (which includes CPR).

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) and previous experience with children and families. An Associate’s Degree may be considered in lieu of years of experience. Must pass background check, physical and drug screening. This position also requires a valid driver’s license and proof of current vehicle insurance
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• • Ability to perform a range of physical motions including, but not limited to:
    • Lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs.
    • Support and safely lower 150 pounds of weight to the floor
    • Standing, walking, sitting for long periods of time
    • Must be able to get up and down off the floor unassisted
    • Must be able to reach above their heads, bend, kneel, and lift
    • Running for brief periods of time
  • Ability to use senses of sight and hearing to effectively supervise clients
  • Must possess, or be willing to attain CPR, First Aid, and Safe Crisis Management (SCM) Training (with sufficient passing score) within 2 weeks of hire date.

In addition to the above requirements, incumbent must:

• • Have a valid driver’s license and proof of current vehicle insurance;
  • Follow all agency policies;
  • Be able to pass State Abuse, Neglect and criminal background checks;
  • Be able to carry out the essential functions of the position with, or without, accommodation.
  • Demonstrate awareness and understanding of cultural and ethnic diversity of clients, staff and other community partners.

DIRECT REPORTS
The Paraprofessional is responsible for the following direct reports:

• • None

We are an equal employment opportunity employer without regard to a person’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age (40 or older), disability, veteran status or genetic information.