Special Education Paraprofessional

Primary Purpose:
The School-Based Special Education Paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, and personal support to students with disabilities under the direction of a certified teacher and school administration. The paraprofessional assists students in accessing the curriculum, developing social and life skills, and participating successfully in the classroom while fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.

Position Details

Location: Winter Haven, FL
Hours: May vary based on school location
Schedule: May vary based on school location

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's degree or college coursework preferred.

• Ability to meet school district requirements for employment.

• Experience working with children, particularly students with disabilities or special needs, is preferred.

• CPR/First Aid certification may be required by the school district.

Skills & Experience

• Experience supporting students in a classroom, childcare, or related educational setting is preferred.

• Ability to work effectively with students with a variety of learning, behavioral, developmental, and physical needs.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to follow teacher direction while working independently with students.

• Patience, flexibility, and professionalism in a dynamic school environment.

• Ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and families.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one and small group instructional support under the direction of the classroom teacher.

• Assist students with academic assignments, classroom participation, and skill development.

• Support students in achieving Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals as directed by the teacher.

• Reinforce classroom routines, behavior expectations, and positive behavior support strategies.

• Assist with classroom management and help maintain a safe, organized, and engaging learning environment.

• Provide supervision during classroom activities, transitions, lunch, recess, field trips, and other school activities as assigned.

• Assist students with personal care needs, including toileting, feeding, mobility, and hygiene, when required.

• Support students using adaptive equipment or assistive technology as needed.

• Collect observational data and document student progress as requested by the teacher or special education staff.

• Collaborate with teachers, therapists, administrators, and other school personnel to support student success.

• Maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with district policies and applicable laws.

• Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and professional development opportunities.

Work Environment

• Work primarily in classroom and school settings, with possible assignments in specialized instructional areas or community-based activities.

• Regular interaction with students who have a wide range of learning, developmental, behavioral, and physical disabilities.

• Frequent collaboration with teachers, therapists, school administrators, and related service providers.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and actively assist students throughout the school day.

• Ability to lift, transfer, or assist students with mobility needs when required by the assignment.

• Ability to safely respond to behavioral situations and implement district-approved intervention strategies as directed.