PARAPROFESSIONAL / TEACHER AIDE / INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT

PARAPROFESSIONAL / TEACHER AIDE / INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT Department Education Services Reports To School/District Supervisor POSITION SUMMARY Location South Orange or Maplewood, NJ Employment Type Part-Time We are seeking qualified and dedicated Paraprofessionals / Teacher Aides / Instructional Assistants to support students across the South Orange-Maplewood School District. In this role, you will work alongside certified classroom teachers in general and special education settings, providing instructional, behavioral, personal, and classroom support to help students participate fully in the school environment. This is a school-year position for the 20262027 school year through June 30, 2027, with a regular schedule of up to 28 hours per week. Employees are employed by Priority Group Services NJ, not directly by the school district. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Provide one-on-one and small-group instructional support under the direction of a certified classroom teacher. Assist with classroom management and behavioral intervention plans, including collecting and recording data. Support students with physical needs, including dressing, toileting, diapering, mobility, and wheelchair transfers when required. Assist students in using assistive devices, prosthetics, and other necessary equipment. Supervise students during playground activities and assist with bus loading and unloading. Serve as a translator when applicable. Complete clerical and classroom support tasks assigned by the classroom teacher. Maintain accurate daily progress records and protect the confidentiality of all student information. Report incidents of harassment, intimidation, or bullying to school administration immediately. Follow all school, district, and organizational policies, procedures, and safety requirements. Maintain professional conduct and appropriate communication with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and staff. QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS Education & Licensure: Minimum 48 semester-hour college credits from a regionally accredited institution. 60 semester-hour college credits or an Associates degree preferred. Currently enrolled college students may qualify with 30 or more completed semester-hour credits. Required certifications and employment clearances must be completed before the first day of work. Experience: Working knowledge of the needs of children with disabilities. Knowledge of appropriate special education classroom practices preferred. Prior experience working with children or students in an educational or support setting is preferred. Skills & Competencies: Ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, teachers, administrators, and visitors. Sufficient English proficiency to read and follow instructions and communicate effectively with staff and students. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to work effectively under the direction of certified teachers and school administrators. Ability to maintain student confidentiality and professional boundaries. Ability to support students with diverse physical, behavioral, and educational needs. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT The following requirements must be completed before the employee's first day of work. Priority Group Services NJ covers the cost of the background check. New Jersey State Police / FBI criminal history background check pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:6-7.1. Pre-employment history review pursuant to P.L. 2018 c.5 / N.J.S.A. 18A:6-7.6. Pre-employment drug screening, with participation in random testing during employment. Current Mantoux Tuberculin Skin Test (TB test) result on file. Handle with Care verbal de-escalation and physical intervention certification. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS $21.00 per hour Up to 28 hours per week Regular school-year schedule Position term: 20262027 school year through June 30, 2027 Consistent scheduled