Paraprofessional: Special Education Self-Contained

Overview

Special Education Self-Contained Paraprofessional – Lee County School System 9th Grade Campus

Position

Purpose:

Under the direct supervision of a certified Special Education teacher, the Self-Contained Paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, and functional support to students with disabilities in a self-contained classroom setting. The paraprofessional assists in implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), reinforcing academic instruction, supporting behavioral plans, and facilitating students' social, emotional, and functional development to promote progress toward IEP goals and increased independence.

Instructional Support

• Assist the special education teacher in implementing IEP goals, accommodations, and modifications within the self-contained classroom.
• Work with students individually and in small groups to reinforce instruction in reading, mathematics, written expression, life skills, and functional academics.
• Support students in accessing curriculum through adapted materials, visual supports, assistive technology, and differentiated strategies.
• Assist in administering classroom assignments, assessments, and instructional activities under teacher direction.
• Prepare and organize instructional materials aligned to individual student needs.

Behavioral & Social-Emotional Support

• Implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) as directed.
• Provide consistent supervision to maintain a structured, safe, and orderly classroom environment.
• Utilize de-escalation strategies and approved crisis response procedures as trained.
• Support students in developing social skills, self-regulation, and appropriate peer interactions.

Functional & Daily Living Support

• Assist students with physical, cognitive, and developmental disabilities in activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, feeding, mobility, and other personal care needs, as required.
• Ensure student dignity, privacy, and safety at all times.
• Follow all district safety protocols and training related to lifting, transferring, feeding, or hygiene procedures.

Documentation & Communication

• Assist with data collection and record-keeping related to IEP goals, behavior tracking, and student progress monitoring.
• Communicate relevant observations regarding student performance and behavior to the supervising teacher.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and information in accordance with FERPA and district policy.

Supervision & Campus Duties

• Supervise students during transitions, lunch, bus loading/unloading, community-based instruction, and other school activities.
• Accompany and support students on field trips and community-based learning experiences.
• Assist in maintaining classroom organization and safety standards.

Additional Duties

• Support guidance, pupil services, or building administration as needed.
• Participate in required professional learning, including crisis response or behavioral training.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervising teacher or administration.

Note:

This description is illustrative of typical responsibilities and is not intended to be all-inclusive.

• Standard instructional and office equipment (computers, copiers, adaptive technology).
• Specialized equipment related to feeding, hygiene, lifting, mobility, or assistive devices following proper training.

• Ability to follow written and oral instructions from certified staff.
• Understanding of instructional reinforcement strategies for students with disabilities.
• Ability to implement behavior support strategies consistently.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Strong interpersonal skills with adolescents requiring intensive support.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, administrators, related service providers, and families.
• Basic technology proficiency (Word, Excel, instructional software).
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and assist students with mobility needs.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors during student activities.
• Ability to respond appropriately in crisis situations.
• Work is performed in a school setting serving students with moderate to significant disabilities.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must meet paraprofessional requirements under federal and state guidelines.
• Prior experience working with adolescents with disabilities strongly preferred.
• Training in crisis prevention/intervention or willingness to obtain required certification.

FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt