Cedar Rapids Prep·Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Support the academic and social development of special education students by implementing Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and providing targeted interventions. Collaborate with teachers and leadership to maintain an organized classroom environment and communicate student progress to families.
Paraprofessional Educator | Cedar Rapids Prep About Cedar Rapids Prep Cedar Rapids Prep is a tuition-free, college-preparatory school that opened in August 2025, initially serving 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, with plans to expand through 12th grade. The school emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and personal ownership, providing a supportive community where students are paired with dedicated advisors to ensure their success. Cedar Rapids Prep offers a private school experience without the cost, featuring top-notch facilities, student uniforms, and rigorous academics. As part of the Opportunity Education Network, the school aims to empower students to lead ambitious and purpose-driven lives.
Paraprofessional Educator Guided by the Special Education Teacher and Principal, the Special Education Paraprofessional plays a key role in supporting the academic growth and character development of scholars receiving special education services. Assigned to a specific classroom or grade level, the paraprofessional will collaborate closely with students, families, and school leadership to strengthen instructional support and classroom management skills tailored to individual student needs. Instruction Delivery & Curriculum Development (70%) Assist in the educational and social development of students under the direction and guidance of the classroom teacher. Assist in the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for the students and monitor their progress. Provide support for individual students inside and outside the classroom to enable them to fully participate in activities. Assist in maintaining the classroom, organization of data, materials and equipment as established by the teacher. Establish a welcoming, organized, and inspiring classroom environment. Student Engagement & Support (20%) Support students with emotional or behavior concerns and assist them in developing appropriate social skills. Build strong relationships with students, fostering a culture of high expectations, accountability, and support. Support in providing differentiated instruction and targeted interventions to ensure all students succeed, including students reading below grade level. Collaboration & Professional Growth (5%) Work closely with fellow teachers and school leadership to align curriculum, assessment, and instructional strategies. Participate in school-wide professional development to continuously refine instructional practice, including regular data and assessment reflection cycles. Engage in feedback cycles with the Dean of Academics and Principal to improve teaching effectiveness. Family & Community Engagement (5%) Communicate regularly with families about student progress, celebrating successes and addressing challenges proactively. Participate in school events, family conferences, and outreach efforts to build strong relationships with families and the community. Ideal Candidate Skills and Experiences Qualified candidates must have the following: Completion of an approved paraeducator certification program Verification of high school completion or equivalent 1-3 years of experience working with students with special education needs is preferred Strong skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook Proven track record of student achievement results Strong organization, planning, and time management skills Open to feedback and committed to continuously improving Ideal Candidate Traits Deep belief in all students’ potential and a commitment to holding high academic and behavioral expectations A growth mindset, constantly seeking to refine and improve support skills Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues Adaptability and excitement about being part of a founding team at a new school Readiness to go above and beyond, including putting in extra time in and outside of your role, to build Cedar Rapid’s premier college prep school Compensation Salary is currently budgeted in a range competitive with local district expectations. The role would pay $18/hour. Non-Discrimination Statement Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of an approved paraeducator certification program. Preference is given to those with 1-3 years of experience working with special education students and proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Market context
In Iowa, teaching assistant roles often draw steady interest in districts and early childhood settings, especially when schools need dependable classroom support. Competition can be stronger for candidates who already meet state or accreditation education requirements and can handle active indoor and outdoor supervision. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this page against the original posting, then confirm your credentials and availability before applying.