Atlanta Public Schools Jobs (Special Education Paraprofessional)

Job Description

Atlanta Public Schools is hiring Special Education Paraprofessionals for the 2024-25 school year. In this full-time, on-campus role you’ll team up with certified teachers to run small-group and one-on-one lessons, follow each student’s IEP, gather progress data, and keep classrooms safe and orderly. To qualify, bring a valid GA paraprofessional certificate, or an associate degree/two years of college, or a high-school diploma plus a passing score on the GA paraprofessional assessment, along with a genuine knack for working with children. The district pays on the APS Grade 115 scale (202-day calendar), offers robust health benefits, and provides regular professional-learning days that can launch a longer career in special education. If you’re tech-savvy, patient, and ready to help students with disabilities reach their potential, apply through the APS careers portal today.

Atlanta Public Schools Jobs: Special Education Paraprofessional Opportunity

What You Bring:

Certification:

• Valid GA Paraprofessional Certificate OR
• High School Diploma/GED AND successful completion of the GA paraprofessional assessment OR
• Associate’s degree or completion of 2 years of higher education.

Experience:

• Previous experience with children is preferred, ideally two (2) years.
• Ready to engage in face-to-face instruction within the school setting.

Key Skills & Abilities:

• Child Development Insight: Understanding of childhood growth and development stages.
• Instructional Expertise: Ability to choose and implement effective teaching methods tailored to diverse learning needs.
• Student Supervision: Proven ability to manage and engage students effectively.
• Subject Matter Knowledge: General academic knowledge relevant to your role.
• Tech-Savvy: Proficient in using computers, especially in a classroom setting.
• Communication: Strong communication skills, with the ability to follow instructions and interact professionally with students, staff, and parents.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to switch between various in-person learning environments seamlessly.
• Safety Conscious: Knowledge of school safety and security procedures.
• Stress Management: Ability to perform under pressure and meet deadlines.

Your Impact:

• Student Support: Assist teachers in meeting the educational and emotional needs of students with disabilities.
• Tailored Instruction: Provide small group or one-on-one instruction aligned with each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
• Data Collection: Track instructional and behavioral progress for all assigned students.
• Behavioral Guidance: Implement Behavior Intervention Plans effectively.
• Communication: Maintain proactive communication with teachers, students, and parents.
• Testing Assistance: Support the execution of standardized testing procedures.
• Material Preparation: Help prepare and distribute lesson materials and resources.
• School Operations: Assist with student movement, classroom management, and maintaining a safe, clean learning environment.
• Health & Safety: Support students with physical needs, including mobility assistance, feeding, hygiene, and medication administration.
• Professional Development: Participate in ongoing in-person professional learning opportunities.
• Attendance: Maintain prompt, regular in-person attendance and be ready to work on-site during standard hours.

Physical & Mental Demands:

• Vision: Ability to read fine print and use a computer for extended periods.
• Hearing: Comfortable working in noisy environments.
• Speech: Effective face-to-face and telephone communication.
• Mobility & Strength: Ability to handle small objects, lift up to 5 pounds frequently, and assist with physical tasks as needed.
• Environmental & Mental Resilience: Ability to manage interruptions, work independently, and stay calm under pressure.

Why Atlanta Public Schools?

Atlanta Public Schools is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.

Compensation:

• Salary Grade: 115
• Salary Range: APS Non-Teaching Staff Salary Scale
• Work Year: 202 Days

Step into a rewarding career where you can make a difference every day. Apply now and become a vital part of our mission to empower every student to achieve their full potential!