Special Education Paraprofessional

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Through the use of social and restorative justice principles, Five Keys provides traditionally underserved communities the opportunity to improve their lives through a focus on the Five Keys: EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT, RECOVERY, FAMILY, COMMUNITY.

Five Keys is a nonprofit organization that operates an extensive network of programs across California. With a presence in 14 counties and over 120 locations, Five Keys focuses on initiatives that empower individuals and families to overcome poverty and inequity. Programs include public charter schools, restorative justice programs in jails and prisons, shelters, permanent supportive housing, and new housing and support programs.

The organization’s overarching objective is to uplift individuals and families by providing essential resources—education, housing, employment, and the tools to sustain progress—creating lasting change in communities.

• Communicate effectively and collaborate with others while building positive relationships.
• Demonstrate strong problem‑solving skills and a dynamic learning mindset.
• Commit to a high level of cultural and social awareness, operating with emotional intelligence and maintaining appropriate boundaries.

At Five Keys, culture matters. We foster an inclusive environment that prioritizes collaboration over hierarchy, serving vulnerable populations daily with compassion, patience, and a trauma‑informed approach. We push past discomfort to have difficult conversations, creating empowered teams and transforming the world around us.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (low monthly cost).
• Generous time off; pre‑tax flexible spending accounts; 403(b) retirement plan.
• Annual reimbursements: up to $100 for gym membership, smoking cessation, and weight‑loss programs; up to $50 for athletic events and massages.
• Free wellness‑related apps, Employee Assistance Program, and comprehensive mental‑health care platform for you and your dependents.

The Special Education Paraprofessional reports to the Assistant Director of Special Education and assists in the direct delivery of instruction in a classroom setting. The employee supports credentialed staff by implementing lesson plans, administering assessments, and maintaining instructional equipment.

• Implement core curriculum for math, reading, and writing.
• Assist in lesson planning and instructional material preparation.
• Tutor individuals or small groups in specific skill and content areas.
• Conduct lessons with assigned groups in the classroom or other educational locations.
• Explain subject matter to students and administer assessments.
• Prepare, operate, and maintain instructional equipment and supplies.
• Support students in post‑secondary transition planning, including hosting events and attending field trips.
• Maintain classroom discipline and enforce school rules.
• Assist in behavior management and discipline.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Creation and documentation of related reports and data.
• Advanced proficiency in Zoom, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and database tools.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information with care.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Two years of college (48 semester units) or an associate’s degree or higher, or a passing score on a district‑approved local assessment (CBEST or Paraprofessional Exam).
• Previous teaching or tutoring experience preferred.

• Wear provided PPE and adhere to safety guidelines.
• Frequent talking and hearing conversations.
• Long periods of walking, sitting at a desk, and/or computer use.
• Lift items up to 25 lbs. and perform daily routine tasks such as reaching, bending, carrying, and stooping.

• Satisfactory Live Scan (criminal background investigation).
• Jail clearance for positions in county jails or probation locations.
• Proof of clear TB results dated within 60 days prior to hire date.

• Moderate to high noise level.
• Work in correctional facilities and community sites across California; up to 80% travel.
• Work environment varies from site to site, with occasional personal safety risk in underserved communities.

Five Keys is committed to ongoing professional development, including conferences, staff training, coaching plans, and paths to new positions within and across programs.

Entry level

Full‑time

Education and Training (Primary and Secondary Education)

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