Para-Professional (Part-Time), Mercy School for Special Learning

DIOCESE OF ALLENTOWN

Mercy School For Special Learning

Position Description

Job Title: Para-Professional

FLSA: Non - Exempt

Job Status: Part Time, 29 hours per week.

Reporting Functions: Reports to Classroom Teacher and Principal

Job Function: Works with students under the guidance, mentorship, and direction of the classroom teacher. In-classroom support will involve activities such as small group facilitation, one-on-one student support, supporting students with specific accommodations, and other duties as assigned.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist and/or support individuals with daily living tasks and activity participation, while encouraging the greatest level of independence.

• Prepare classroom instructions and materials daily under the direction of the classroom teacher.

• Perform caretaking tasks such as feeding, toileting, changing, and maintaining a healthy, safe environment.

• Learn and employ individual communication strategies, behavioral, and medical protocols.

• Assist the classroom teacher with developing and implementing annual outcomes and IEPs.

• Completion of daily documentation and record maintenance per student's IEP goals.

• Communicate all parental concerns and questions about a student's progress to the teacher; respect the confidentiality of all student information and refrain from discussing student information outside of the classroom.

• Work with individual students or small groups on activities assigned by the teacher. Permitted to reinforce instruction provided by the teacher and in this capacity must adhere to lesson plans provided by the teacher.

• Follow all policies set forth by The Diocese of Allentown and Mercy School For Special Learning.

• Escort the students from on and off the bus; parent pickup/drop off, etc. Escort students to and from restrooms, special classes, recess, and lunch.

• Other duties as assigned by the classroom teacher and Principal.

Additional Conditions for Employment

Due to the nature and mission of the Catholic Church, all employees are bound to exhibit respect for the teachings and discipline of the Church in regard to matters of faith and morals, including maintaining a lifestyle that is in conformity with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Educational Requirements:

• High School Diploma or equivalent certificate

Other Requirements:

• Previous experience working with children with special needs (preferred).

• An understanding of child development and the skills necessary to relate to the students being taught.

• Initiative and the willingness to follow a teacher's direction.

• The ability to handle classroom situations with fairness and patience.

• Good writing skills and the ability to communicate effectively with students and teachers.

• Background clearances required (Child Abuse, PA Criminal Check, Fingerprinting, Mandated Reporter Training, and Protecting God's Children Training).

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and requirements.

Physical Demands: Sitting and standing for extended periods of time. May frequently move or lift children weighing up to 100 lbs. from wheelchairs to tables or desks. Frequent bending at the waist, kneeling, crouching, and pushing or pulling to assist students is also required. May reach overhead as well as above shoulders and horizontally. Dexterity of hands and fingers to demonstrate activities or run medical and instructional equipment is required as is hearing and speaking to exchange information, make presentations, hear in a noisy environment, and locate the source of a sound. Reading a variety of materials and monitoring student activities is required. Possible biological exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases.

Working Conditions: This a part-time position; 10- months during the school year, 29 hours a week; Monday- Friday: 8:15 AM- 3:00 PM. Works in a variety of settings including classrooms and community settings. May be required to assist with special duties and work outside the normal school day to attend school-related events.

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and resume via iSolved Hire or to the following:

Principal Beth Grys

Email: bgrys@mercyschool.org

EOE M/F/D/V