Bilingual Paraprofessional

Job Description – Bi-Lingual Paraprofessional

About CANO

Community Academies of New Orleans (“CANO”) is a dynamic and growing charter school management organization with a mission to strengthen leadership and implement strategic operational practices that position us as a Destination School in the New Orleans metropolitan area.

CANO envisions a system of exemplary schools deeply rooted in the voices of our students, families, and communities—producing graduates who are committed to advocacy and community leadership. Our mission is to cultivate schools that foster character development and critical thinking in responsive, student-centered environments, ultimately preparing our students to become impactful leaders.

Our commitment to academic excellence is matched by strategic partnerships and programs that leverage community assets to support student success. CANO offers a fresh yet grounded vision for education in New Orleans—building a new path forward for students, families, and communities.

CANO’s Values are: 

• INTEGRITY. We always do the right thing. 
• TEAMWORK. We work and grow together. 
• PASSION. We love our students; our community; our work. 
• DIGNITY.  We value and respect every member of our community. 
• COURAGE. We approach challenges with optimism and confidence.

About the Role 

The Bi-Lingual Paraprofessional  is responsible for helping prepare and present lessons under the supervision of the teacher of record.   Bilingual or not, the paraprofessional needs a high level of English so they can instruct students on how to speak and read English, as the teacher directs.  They help the teacher configure the class into teams, groups or pairs for special activities. The Bi-Lingual Paraprofessional often serves as a team or group leader for one of the sections in a learning game or contest, and makes sure students are paying attention and engaged in the assignments.

About the Opportunity 

• Helps the teacher assess the students' performance levels and needs
• Translates the teacher's instructions and explanations into the students' first language and translates student talk for the teacher.
•  interprets for parents during conferences, on the telephone or at parent night
• Translates letters and notes from the teacher or school to parents and from parents to the teacher.
• Assist the teacher with assessing needs, goal & objectives, functional levels and motivational levels of the student
• Assists with collaborating with parents and school staff to track students’ progress
• Helps teacher monitor children’s behavioral patterns and arrange appropriate interventions if needed
• Assists with management of  classroom crises and resolve conflict
• Assisting EL  students in achieving academic success 
• Working with students who may be aggressive or disruptive in class
• Assist teachers in adapting lessons for English learners and providing in-class support.
• Repeats or rephrases directions and checks to make sure each student understands.

Requirements 

• High School Diploma( required)
• Bachelor’s degree (preferred)
• Bi-Lingual 
• Two years of English Learner  paraprofessional  experience  (preferred)                                                 
• Good knowledge of current special education topics and methodologies
• Must be able to handle and react to potential volatile situations and take appropriate action.
• A strong desire to work towards equity within education 
• Growth mindset and a desire to learn and grow through consistent coaching and feedback
• A patient, resourceful, and resilient personality
• Belief that all students are capable of success and deserve to be pushed to a rigorous academic and behavioral bar
• Willingness to do whatever it takes and go above and beyond to serve all students, faculty, and parents 
• Calming Nature 

Physical Demands

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position for 75% of the workday while providing instruction. 
• Regularly and frequently required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, operate a laptop or desktop computer, hand-held learning devices and other office equipment, inside the classroom and school building while monitoring students productivity and behavior on a daily basis.
• Occasionally reach with hands and arms and must  lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.  
• Occasionally ascend and descend stairs to migrate throughout the workspace

More about CANO

CANO Schools offer competitive salaries commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package. Aside from extensive professional development, all of our instructional staff members are equipped with a laptop computer, email, and all necessary supplies. We also require all employees to be fully vaccinated and provide proof of the COVID-19 vaccination within 30 days of the date of hire. 

EEO Statement

CANO believes in the importance of being a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization that enables our students and staff to thrive. We are committed to building a talented team that reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our students. "We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Community Academies of New Orleans is an EEO employer and prohibits discrimination, harassment or retaliation in accordance with federal, state and local laws."