Educational Assistant

Position: Educational Assistant - 23.75 hrs/wk
This position is open to internal and external candidates.
Job Title:
Educational Assistant

Bargaining Unit: AFSCME Local 66
Reports To: Building Principal
Wage Range: $18.52 - $21.93 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

TERM: 23.75 hours/week - 182 days
Position Summary

The Educational Assistant/Para-Professional supports the instructional and behavioral needs of students under the direction of licensed teaching staff and school administration. This position assists in creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment by providing instructional support, supervising students in various settings, and reinforcing positive behaviors and academic skills. The Educational Assistant may work with individual students, small groups, or entire classrooms and may provide specialized support to students with unique learning, behavioral, or physical needs.

Key responsibilities include assisting with instructional activities, monitoring student progress, supporting classroom management, and fostering positive relationships with students, staff, and families. Flexibility, strong communication skills, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are essential in this role.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support teachers in delivering instruction, reinforcing learning concepts, and preparing classroom materials.
• Work with individual students and small groups to promote academic growth and positive social-emotional development.
• Observe students in classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, playgrounds, buses, and other school settings to ensure safety and well-being and to preserve an educational environment conducive to learning.
• Assist students with special needs by implementing accommodations, modifications, or behavior plans as directed by teaching staff (i.e. meal time needs, toileting, etc.)
• Model and reinforce positive behavior, respect, and inclusion for all students.
• Collect and maintain student progress data as directed to support instructional planning and MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) practices.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with teachers, administrators, and other support staff to enhance student learning and growth.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student records, performance, and personal information.
• Respond appropriately to student needs and emergencies in alignment with district safety protocols.
• Attend, receive, and possess annual CPI training certification as required by the district.
• Attend and receive District-mandated training as appropriate (i.e. Science of Reading, CPR/AED, etc.).

Core Values in Practice

• Equity: Ensure all students have access to a safe, engaging, and inclusive learning environment.
• Safety: Contribute to a culture where every student feels valued and secure.
• Community: Partner with families, staff, and community members to positively impact student growth.
• Inclusion: Support individualized education tailored to meet the needs of all learners.
• Excellence: Reinforce high academic and behavioral standards through effective support.
• Investment: Commit to building strong relationships with students and staff, investing in their success today and into the future.

Qualifications

• Valid MN Driver's License.
• Must be "Highly Qualified" (2-year postsecondary certificate, paraprofessional portfolio, or must have passed or have the ability to pass the paraprofessional assessment) or have the ability to become "Highly Qualified" within 60 days of hire date.
• Possess or have the ability to obtain PCA certification within 60 days of hire date.
• Experience working with children or youth in educational or related settings preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to follow teacher direction, implement instructional strategies, and adapt to diverse student needs.
• Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and the mission and vision of Proctor Public Schools.
• Flexibility, patience, and a positive, student-centered attitude.
• Physical ability to meet the demands of a school setting (standing, walking, bending, lifting, etc.).

Working Conditions

Educational Assistants serve in a variety of school environments, supporting students in classrooms and throughout the school day. The role requires flexibility, collaboration, and a commitment to fostering safe, respectful, and innovative learning spaces.

Proctor Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.

This position is represented by AFSCME Local 66.

Internal and External Final date to receive applications:
Open until filled