Description: The primary responsibility of the MSD Severe Needs Paraprofessional is to support the classroom teacher in meeting the needs of all students identified with disabilities.  Dependent upon assignment, this may be working directly in a special education classroom, working in a general education classroom or environment, working one-on-one with a student or small group of students and/or working in a Transition or School to Work setting.

Qualifications:  -High School Diploma or equivalent

                         -Must either pass the paraprofessional basic competency test, or have a minimum of a two-year associate's                             degree               

                         -The ability to lift, transfer, diaper/toilet and/or meet medical needs of students without restriction

                         -An understanding of students with varying academic, behavioral, and social needs

                         -Ability to work in a team environment

                         -Positive communication skills

Additional

Requirements:  -School Board Approval

                          -Criminal History Check

                          -Successful completion of:  CPR, Basic First Aid, and

                          -Handle with Care Certification (for individuals working in high need classrooms)

Reports to:        1.   Supervising teacher

                          2.   Coordinator of Special Education Services and/or Building Principal 

                          3.   Director of Special Education

Evaluation:     MSD of Wabash Paraprofessionals will be evaluated a minimum of once annually, by the supervising teacher                            and principal.  First year employees will be evaluated twice during the first year of employment.

Job Expectations and Responsibilities:

1. To carry out all instructional tasks as assigned.

2. To carry out all non-instructional support tasks as assigned.

3. Uphold the strictest confidentiality of students, parents, and

         classrooms.

4. To treat students with dignity and respect at all times.

5. To participate in in-service training programs as assigned.

6. To work constructively with school personnel.

7. Demonstrate positive role modeling for students.

8. To maintain a positive outlook for the program and to assist in

         presenting the program in a favorable manner to staff, parents, and to the general public.

9. To maintain the chain of command: if a problem is encountered requiring a resolution procedure, always go first to the supervising teacher.  If it cannot be resolved, the following chain of command should be followed:  Building Principal, Director of Special Education.