Paraprofessional RISE Learning Center at Derby Public Schools in Derby, CT

Job description

Paraeducator at Derby Middle School � RISE Room Position: Paraeducator Location: Derby Middle School, Derby, Connecticut Reports To: Building Administration / Special Education Supervisor Position Overview Derby Middle School is seeking a compassionate, skilled, and student-centered Paraeducator to join our RISE Room team. The RISE Room provides targeted academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and regulation support to middle school students who require additional structure and individualized intervention to be successful in the school environment. The ideal candidate will understand that behavior is a form of communication and will approach students with patience, consistency, empathy, and a belief in their ability to grow. The Paraeducator will help create a predictable, supportive environment in which students can practice and strengthen academic, behavioral, social, and self-regulation skills. About the RISE Room The Derby Middle School RISE Room is designed to provide students with a structured and supportive setting when they need additional assistance to successfully engage in school. The program is grounded in our schoolwide RISE values: Respectful � We treat ourselves and others with dignity. Independent � We develop the skills to advocate for ourselves and take ownership of our learning and behavior. Safe � We create an environment where students and adults feel physically and emotionally safe. Empowered � We believe every student has the capacity to learn, grow, and contribute. Students receiving support through the RISE Room may demonstrate a range of academic, behavioral, executive functioning, communication, social-emotional, and self-regulation needs. Support is individualized based on student needs and may occur within the RISE Room, in general education settings, or throughout other areas of the school. Essential Responsibilities Provide direct behavioral and academic support to students individually and in small groups. Implement individualized behavioral interventions and strategies under the direction of qualified school-based professionals and in accordance with student plans. Support students in developing self-regulation, coping, communication, social, executive functioning, and problem-solving skills. Assist students in identifying triggers and utilizing appropriate replacement behaviors and coping strategies. Reinforce positive behaviors and student progress using school- and student-appropriate reinforcement systems. Support students in transitioning successfully between classrooms, activities, and settings. Provide academic assistance and reinforce instructional strategies under the direction of classroom teachers and other certified staff. Help students develop independence rather than becoming dependent on adult support. Collect accurate behavioral and academic data as directed by the supervising teacher or behavior professional. Document student progress, interventions, and relevant observations in accordance with school and district expectations. Assist with the implementation of behavior support plans, IEP goals, and other individualized student supports as appropriate. Maintain a calm, predictable, structured, and welcoming RISE Room environment. Respond appropriately and safely to student dysregulation, escalation, and crises in accordance with district protocols and training. Support students in returning to instruction and the school community following behavioral incidents or periods of dysregulation. Collaborate with teachers to help students generalize skills learned in the RISE Room to their general education classrooms and other school settings. Participate as a member of the student's educational support team and contribute relevant observations and data. Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism when working with students, families, and staff. Build positive relationships with students while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries. Perform other duties as assign