Special Education Paraprofessional

Special Education Paraprofessional

Department: Student Services
Reports To: Director of Student Services and Assigned Special Education Staff
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Employment Type: Full-Time, School-Year Position
Annual Workdays: 194 Days
Starting Pay: $18.36 Per Hour
Start Date: July 24th, 2026

Position Summary

The mission of The Vanguard School is to guide students in the development of their character and academic potential through academically rigorous, content-rich educational programs.

The Special Education Paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, and functional support to students receiving special education services. Working under the supervision of licensed special education staff, this position assists students in achieving academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and functional goals outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and other educational plans.

The ideal candidate is student-focused, collaborative, patient, and committed to supporting students with diverse learning needs in a positive and inclusive educational environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Student Support

• Provide academic, behavioral, and physical assistance to students with disabilities in individual, small-group, and classroom settings.
• Support implementation of student accommodations, modifications, and goals outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 Plans.
• Assist students with organization, task completion, and classroom participation.
• Reinforce instructional concepts and learning activities under the direction of certified staff.
• Promote student independence while providing appropriate levels of support.

Behavioral and Social-Emotional Support

• Assist in implementing behavior intervention plans and classroom behavior management strategies.
• Support students who may demonstrate challenging, disruptive, aggressive, or unsafe behaviors.
• Utilize approved de-escalation and behavior management techniques (training provided upon hire).
• Maintain a calm, supportive, and professional approach when addressing student behavioral needs.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work collaboratively with special education teachers, general education teachers, related service providers, administrators, and families as appropriate.
• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
• Communicate effectively regarding student progress, concerns, and support needs.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student records and educational information.

Administrative and Clerical Support

• Assist with preparation and organization of instructional materials and classroom resources.
• Maintain accurate records, data collection, and documentation as assigned.
• Provide clerical support for special education services and student programming.
• Support compliance requirements related to special education documentation and reporting.

Professional Responsibilities

• Positively represent The Vanguard School and its mission to students, families, staff, and community members.
• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and flexibility in daily responsibilities.
• Support the educational goals and initiatives of the Student Services Department.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience

• Experience working with children preferred.
• Experience supporting students with disabilities, behavioral needs, or diverse learning needs preferred.
• School-based experience preferred but not required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to build positive relationships with students.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative team.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to remain calm and effective during challenging situations.
• Ability to follow directions and implement instructional and behavioral plans consistently.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and movement throughout the school day.
• Ability to assist students with physical needs as required.
• Ability to occasionally lift, move, or support up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to participate in approved physical management and safety interventions when necessary (training provided).

Work Environment

• School-based educational environment.
• Frequent interaction with students, staff, and families.
• May include supporting students with significant academic, behavioral, emotional, or physical needs.
• May require working in classrooms, therapy settings, common areas, and outdoor environments.

Benefits

Eligible employees may receive:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Assistance Program (if applicable)
• Participation in Colorado PERA

Performance Expectations

The Special Education Paraprofessional will be expected to:

• Demonstrate professionalism, compassion, and reliability.
• Foster positive relationships with students and staff.
• Support student achievement and growth.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Follow educational, behavioral, and safety plans consistently.
• Contribute positively to a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and student success.

Disclaimers

You are required to disclose relevant issues related to criminal history, employment history, and licensure history in order to apply.

All employees must submit to and pass a CBI/FBI fingerprint background check as a condition of employment.

The Vanguard School is subject to all federal and state laws and constitutional provisions prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, or ancestry in its programs and activities.

Applicants who upload a copy of their transcripts or certifications may choose to redact dates of birth and dates of attendance, graduation, or completion. An un-redacted copy may be requested if an employment offer is extended. Submitted résumés may also exclude dates of attendance or graduation for high school and/or post-secondary education.