University Instructors, LLC is recruiting for immediate placement of dynamic 1:1 and classroom special education paraprofessionals to support students attending Tacoma Public Schools. As a paraprofessional you will directly impact students in special education programs. You will also partner with teachers to provide instruction, manage behavior, and provide primary care to students.

Role Responsibilities:

Successful Applicants will:

Provide instruction to students individually or in small groups in assigned learning or “center” activities per direction of teacher

Help instruct students in self-care activities or carry out activities such as feeding, dressing and toileting; may perform diapering/toileting assistance and changing of sanitary napkins and colostomy bags, brushing teeth, inserting orthodontics and suctioning machines, tube or pump feeding.

May restrain and calm students when they become self-abusive or violent toward others; monitors and protects students through seizures and other physical emergencies

Perform sensory stimulation activities as assigned; uses adaptive equipment; may assist students to perform activities during adaptive physical education; may administer and log medications as assigned, as trained by the licensed school nurse or appropriate therapist

Supervise students during recess or lunch periods; may supervise students in locker/shower rooms and restrooms; assist students in bus loading or unloading; instruct bus drivers on proper physical and/or behavioral support of students; may transport students as needed throughout the school or building premises

Record student progress on data sheets, daily logs and prepares reports to assist the teacher; maintain communication with classroom teacher, program administrator and/or other school staff

Assist in assessing students; communicate with parents/guardians as assigned; Maintain student records; Collect and record data for the teacher on student progress toward IEP goals and objectives, behavioral plans, and grooming plans in addition to academic progress

Assist with adjusting the position of students with physical disabilities periodically throughout the day to protect skin and ensure comfort; implement occupational therapy and physical therapy as instructed by specialists; use and teach basic sign language with students as needed; monitors students constantly to ensure safety

Assist with preparation and serving lunches and snacks for students in the assigned program; may clean dishes, utensils, and eating area following snack periods

Model positive and appropriate behavior for students; corrects inappropriate behavior and demonstrates and discusses appropriate behavior; instructs students in appropriate conflict resolution as directed; administers discipline according to District guidelines and assists in classroom management

Assist teacher in adapting materials and activities as directed; may assist in administering standardized tests as assigned; uses special teaching techniques, computer software, and adaptive equipment to meet the needs of students with particular disabilities, as assigned; arranges classroom furniture and materials for activities

Accompany students on field trips and camp activities; may accompany student to off-site jobs several times per week to supervise work; may supervise and provide instruction with students in general education classes

Participate in department staff meetings; provides information regarding students.

May use specialized adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, wedges, standers, side-layers, etc.; assists in adapting and maintaining equipment for student use

May coordinate computer activities for students with disabilities; Help maintain and troubleshoot equipment; assist in the scheduling of students to use equipment

Demonstrate reasonable, reliable and regular attendance to prevent undue hardship that would create negative effects for instruction and related activities on the students and the program

Adhere to District policy per general Employee Conduct rules regarding tardiness and unauthorized absences

Address concerns with appropriate teaching staff and/or therapy staff and/or building administrators as appropriate

Education Requirements:

We are seeking individuals who have relevant experience working with special education students. Additionally, you must hold a high school diploma, or it recognized equivalent (i.e., GED) and hold one of the following:

A bachelor’s degree

An associate degree

Two years of study at an institution of higher ed and at least 72 credit hours completed of post-secondary education.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of assigned developmental, behavioral, and/or physical disabilities. Knowledge of assigned subject areas and basic learning styles

Knowledge of effective instructional methods for students with disabilities. Knowledge of safe and proper methods of lifting and positioning of students. Knowledge of basic sign language skills (for designated positions.)

Ability to maintain confidentiality

Ability to defuse student conflict and de-escalate situations. Ability to obtain, clarify, and exchange information

Ability to use excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively and collegially with staff, community and students, including students with special needs

Ability to walk, sit, squat, crawl, kneel, bend, stoop, reach and lift to attend to the physical needs of the students

Ability to work in inclement weather

Ability to lift up to 25 pounds individually and team-lift up to 50 pounds. Ability to organize and coordinate activities

Ability to feed, diaper, and provide toileting and/or other personal assistance to students.

Ability to be sensitive to students who are unable to communicate their needs. Ability to appropriately restrain students as necessary

Ability to demonstrate reasonable, reliable, and regular attendance

Ability to establish and maintain effective civil and collegial working relationships with a variety of people in a multicultural, diverse socio-economic setting