Direct Support Professional II - Paraeducator

Overview

Direct Support Professional II - Paraeducator

Pay: $21.00/hour

Are you passionate about making a real, daily impact in the lives of students with diverse learning needs? Join Crotched Mountain School as a Direct Support Professional II – Paraeducator, where you’ll play a vital role in helping students learn, grow, and gain independence—sometimes one small victory (or perfectly tied shoe) at a time.

The Role...

As a DSP II – Paraeducator, you’ll provide hands-on support to students across educational, vocational, and daily living activities. You’ll work closely with teachers, clinicians, and nurses to implement individualized plans and ensure a safe, respectful, and engaging learning environment.

This role requires a higher level of experience and independence, and may include mentoring newer staff while contributing to a strong, team-based approach to care and education.

Hours...

• Monday through Friday; 8:00am-3:00pm
• This is a year round position in a 44-week per year program, working during school hours only. You will not work during school vacations, holidays, snow days, etc. 

Benefits...

• $2,000 sign-on bonus
• Health, dental, and vision insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield
• 403(b) retirement plan with company match of 25-33% based on years of service
• Accrued paid sick and personal days
• Paid orientation and training
• Student loan assistance & paid education (tuition, certifications, licensure, etc.)
• PSLF-eligible nonprofit employer
• EAP, FSA/HSA, life insurance, parental leave, home mortgage program, professional development assistance, referral program, legal insurance, pet insurance, and more

About Crotched Mountain School...

Crotched Mountain School (CMS) provides innovative special education, vocational, and therapeutic programming for students ages 5–21 on the autism spectrum and/or with complex disabilities.

Licensed by the New Hampshire Department of Education and the Certification for Child Care Licensing Unit, CMS delivers individualized instruction in a supportive, least-restrictive environment.

Students may also live on campus through Crotched Mountain Village, where experiential learning includes vocational training, recreation, community outings, and life skills development—all on a beautiful, nature-filled campus.

Why Join Us?

At CMS, you’re not just supporting students—you’re helping them build independence, confidence, and life skills that truly matter. Every day brings something new, whether it’s a breakthrough in the classroom, a successful community outing, or a moment of connection that makes it all worthwhile.

If you’re ready for meaningful work, supportive teammates, and a role where what you do truly matters—we’d love to meet you.

Responsibilities

Student Support & Daily Care

• Support students in academic, vocational, and life skills programming
• Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, dressing, and meals
• Build respectful, supportive relationships with students
• Participate in field trips, vocational activities, and school events

Educational & Behavioral Support

• Implement Individual Education Programs (IEPs), behavior plans, and treatment plans
• Help students stay engaged with learning and classroom activities
• Use positive behavior support and de-escalation techniques
• Safely manage behavioral incidents, including trained physical interventions when necessary
• Anticipate and prevent potential challenges before they escalate

Health & Safety

• Support students’ medical needs, including recognizing health concerns
• Administer medications (as trained) under supervision
• Respond to emergencies, including seizure protocols and injuries
• Follow all safety, reporting, and documentation procedures

Teamwork & Communication

• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of educators, clinicians, and medical staff
• Attend meetings, trainings, and workshops
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members
• Report any concerns related to student safety, including suspected abuse or neglect

Documentation & Organization

• Complete accurate and timely documentation (IEP data, behavior tracking, medical logs, etc.)
• Maintain organized records and follow all reporting requirements
• Use electronic systems (e.g., Matrix) to document care and services

Core Skills

• Empathy, patience, and compassion
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities
• Reliability and attention to detail
• Ability to support both academic and behavioral needs
• Comfort working in a dynamic, hands-on environment

Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree required
  • OR High School Diploma/GED with passing ParaPro (Praxis) scores
• At least 1 year of related experience
• Valid driver’s license (Class C or D)