Paraprofessional Teacher

Communication / Special Education Paraprofessional - SY 26/27

Position Summary:

The Communication / Special Education Paraprofessional provides direct support to students receiving speech and language services and assists the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and Special Education team in implementing individualized education programs (IEPs). This role supports students with communication needs in classroom settings, therapy sessions, and daily school activities to help improve functional communication, social interaction, and academic participation.

The paraprofessional may also assist in facilitating therapy sessions when services are delivered virtually, helping students access technology, follow therapy activities, and practice communication strategies.

Key Responsibilities

Student Support

• Assist students with communication needs during speech therapy sessions and classroom instruction.

• Reinforce speech and language goals outlined in students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

• Support students with articulation practice, language development activities, and social communication skills.

• Provide one-on-one or small-group assistance under the supervision of the SLP and Special Education staff.

Therapy Session Support

• Prepare materials and activities used in speech therapy sessions.

• Assist with implementing therapy exercises as directed by the SLP.

• Facilitate student participation in virtual or hybrid speech therapy sessions, including technology setup and supervision.

• Help maintain a structured and supportive therapy environment.

Classroom Collaboration

• Work closely with general education and special education teachers to support communication strategies within the classroom.

• Help students use communication tools such as visual supports, AAC devices, or communication boards.

• Assist with behavior management and engagement strategies related to communication challenges.

Documentation & Communication

• Track student participation and progress during sessions as directed by the SLP.

• Maintain confidentiality of student records in accordance with FERPA guidelines.

• Communicate observations and concerns to the SLP and Special Education Director.

Additional Support

• Assist with scheduling or coordinating students for therapy sessions.

• Support transitions between classrooms and therapy settings.

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

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; associate’s degree or coursework in education, communication disorders, or related field preferred.

• Experience working with children, particularly students with disabilities or communication challenges, preferred.

• Ability to follow instructional guidance from licensed professionals.

• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.

• Comfort using basic educational technology and virtual meeting platforms.

Preferred Skills

• Experience supporting students with speech/language delays or communication disorders.

• Familiarity with AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) tools.

• Experience working in special education or school settings.

• Ability to work patiently and effectively with diverse learners.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to assist students in classroom and therapy environments.

• Ability to sit, stand, and move between classrooms throughout the school day.

Communication / Special Education Paraprofessional - SY 26/27

Position Summary:

The Communication / Special Education Paraprofessional provides direct support to students receiving speech and language services and assists the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and Special Education team in implementing individualized education programs (IEPs). This role supports students with communication needs in classroom settings, therapy sessions, and daily school activities to help improve functional communication, social interaction, and academic participation.

The paraprofessional may also assist in facilitating therapy sessions when services are delivered virtually, helping students access technology, follow therapy activities, and practice communication strategies.

Key Responsibilities

Student Support

• Assist students with communication needs during speech therapy sessions and classroom instruction.

• Reinforce speech and language goals outlined in students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

• Support students with articulation practice, language development activities, and social communication skills.

• Provide one-on-one or small-group assistance under the supervision of the SLP and Special Education staff.

Therapy Session Support

• Prepare materials and activities used in speech therapy sessions.

• Assist with implementing therapy exercises as directed by the SLP.

• Facilitate student participation in virtual or hybrid speech therapy sessions, including technology setup and supervision.

• Help maintain a structured and supportive therapy environment.

Classroom Collaboration

• Work closely with general education and special education teachers to support communication strategies within the classroom.

• Help students use communication tools such as visual supports, AAC devices, or communication boards.

• Assist with behavior management and engagement strategies related to communication challenges.

Documentation & Communication

• Track student participation and progress during sessions as directed by the SLP.

• Maintain confidentiality of student records in accordance with FERPA guidelines.

• Communicate observations and concerns to the SLP and Special Education Director.

Additional Support

• Assist with scheduling or coordinating students for therapy sessions.

• Support transitions between classrooms and therapy settings.

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

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; associate’s degree or coursework in education, communication disorders, or related field preferred.

• Experience working with children, particularly students with disabilities or communication challenges, preferred.

• Ability to follow instructional guidance from licensed professionals.

• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.

• Comfort using basic educational technology and virtual meeting platforms.

Preferred Skills

• Experience supporting students with speech/language delays or communication disorders.

• Familiarity with AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) tools.

• Experience working in special education or school settings.

• Ability to work patiently and effectively with diverse learners.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to assist students in classroom and therapy environments.

• Ability to sit, stand, and move between classrooms throughout the school day.