Description: Baystate Academy Charter Public School (BACPS) is a college preparatory charter school in Springfield, MA, which opened its doors to students in fall 2013. BACPS is providing rigorous academic standards and educational opportunities rooted in health sciences to students in grades 6 – 12. Through unique partnerships with Baystate Health, Springfield Technical Community College, and Expeditionary Learning, BACPS will prepare students to enter the world of higher education and health careers with scientific knowledge, ethics, integrity, and compassion.

BACPS is seeking a dynamic, dedicated, and talented special education paraprofessional to join our school community. The paraprofessional will provide assistance to students and staff while working in and out of a variety of classrooms.

Job Description

• maintains high level of ethical behavior and confidentiality of information about students and their records
• provides reinforcement to students in small and large groups
• plans and provides modified lessons under direct supervision of general education teachers  or specialists
• prepares materials for teachers and students, as requested
• attends parent conferences and TEAM meetings, as requested
• administers assessments to individuals or small groups, as needed
• meets with teachers/specialists for curriculum discussions, as requested
• meets with administrators, teachers and other specialists to discuss school issues, as requested
• carries out personal health and safety protocols with appropriate training
• compiles reports of daily accomplishments and/or behaviors for regular meetings with regular and Special Education educators, as well as with the consulting teacher for integration to review students’ progress
• assists in the development and implementation of a reinforcement program
• participates in in-service training programs and/or professional development programs, as assigned
• provides information to be included in the preparation of progress reports
• provides escort and assistance to assigned student(s) as necessary throughout the building
• performs other duties, as assigned

Demonstrated ability to:

• work with children of varying abilities
• implement a structured behavior plan and work with appropriate staff to modify when necessary
• arrive promptly for school, scheduled classes and duties
• support and follow established school policies
• engage in activities to develop self-worth and dignity of students
• recognize and provide for individual differences among students
• communicate effectively with students, teachers, and administration
• modify student work to match students’ level of understanding and development
• maintain cooperative and productive working relationship when dealing with students and staff
• solve practical problems with students and staff
• understand and carry out oral and written directions
• plan and organize work to meet deadlines
• provide information and assistance to parents, the general public and other staff members in a helpful, courteous and timely manner

Knowledge of:

• available assistive technologies, with appropriate training
• effective use of computer and relevant educational software applications
• interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy
• telephone/computer techniques and etiquette

Education/ Experience/ Skills:

• Minimum of an Associate or Arts or Science degree (60 credits); BA preferred; 
• At least one year of relevant experience preferred;
• Citizenship, residency or work VISA in United States required;

• Strong commitment to the mission, policies, goals and philosophy of Baystate Academy Charter Public School;
• Ability to work independently and as a team member;
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple and diverse priorities;
• Must have the ability to consistently show good judgment and decision making skills;
•  Professional appearance and attitude;
• Able to communicate effectively verbally and in writing;
• English/Spanish bilingual desired

 Core Job Requirements: 

• Works with individual students or small groups of students to reinforce learning of materials or skills initially introduced and outlined by core content staff.
• Assists the core content staff in devising special strategies for reinforcing learning materials and skills based on a sympathetic understanding of individual students, their needs, interests, and abilities.
• Performs assigned supervision of students during lunch periods, play periods, and on field trips.
• Carry out assessment activities to collect and document objective information about the students’ strengths and needs
• Reinforce reading, writing, mathematical ideas and concepts, and other such skills presented by the classroom teacher

Compensation: Competitive Salary and benefits package is offered to all candidates