GSRP Associate Teacher

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.

GRPS MISSION:
Our mission is to ensure that all students are educated, self-directed and productive members of society.

GSRP Associate (formerly PreK Paraprofessional)

Department:
Early Childhood

Bargaining Unit:
Grand Rapids Public Schools Paraprofessional Association (GRPSPA)

Hourly Rate:
Based on the collective bargaining agreement (starting rate is fixed and non-negotiable)

JOB SUMMARY

The GSRP Associate is responsible for working as an instructional team member in providing world-class educational activities for young children. Also, position is responsible for certain non-instructional and concept/skill reinforcement tasks and providing children the opportunity for additional professional adult/student relationships.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Essential functions under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include any of the following duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is illustrative only and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by employees in this position. Regular on time and in person attendance is an essential function of this job. Other essential functions may include, but are not limited to the following:

* Responsible for actively participating in school building activities, meetings, parent conferences, staffing, training, IEP, when appropriate, as determined by the building administration or the assigned certified teacher

* Present lessons to individual children or small groups, assisting in all introductions of information and concepts, selection, and preparation of materials, consistently messaging behavior expectations as set by the certified teacher

* Assist with loading and unloading of children from the buses

* Responsible for informing the certified teacher of any specific needs or concerns regarding children

* Responsible for carrying through on suggestions as communicated by the teacher, admin, or KISD ECS

* When needed, assist with the medical needs of students

* Assist with the grooming needs of students' self-care

* Assist in preparing displays of student learning

* Secure, set up and operate classrooms technology and hands-on teaching materials and equipment

* Perform clerical tasks such as taking attendance, documenting student learning, filling out payroll forms, etc.

* Assist teacher in maintaining an orderly, clean, and organized classroom physical environment

* Assist teacher in maintaining a positive classroom climate using GRPS Pre-K PBIS expectations

* Supervise children during daily outdoor activities to meet childcare licensing requirements

* Interact with co-workers, administration, children, and parents in positive, supportive, and cooperative ways

* Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

Must have one of the following educational requirements:

* Obtained an associate degree (AA) in early childhood education, child development or the equivalent; OR

* A valid classroom CDA credential; OR

* Completed at least a High School diploma/GED and must be willing to obtain a CDA or associate degree in early childhood education, child development, or the equivalent within two years from date of hire

Preferred Qualifications:

* Experience working with students with disabilities, preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

* Demonstrated ability to interact with children, parents, staff, and community in a contractual and courteous manner

* Experience working with children

* Demonstrated good attendance and punctuality

* Demonstrated respect for the confidentiality requirements of information

* Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and…