Laradon·Denver, Colorado
Support students with significant support needs by implementing IEP goals and behavior support plans to create a safe learning environment. Responsibilities include tracking progress, managing crises, and collaborating with the Special Education Teacher.
Paraprofessional - Significant Support Needs Location: Laradon fosters a collaborative, team environment; working on-site in Denver, CO Schedule: 8 am-4 pm, M-F. This position is a full calendar year (extended school year with 8-9 PAID breaks/weeks off a school year) Starting
*$21.00-$24.60/hr Laradon has been a leader in advocacy, education, and support for kids and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities for over 75 years. We are looking for talented and dedicated team members to carry our legacy forward.
If you genuinely care about providing youth and/or adults with a sense of direction and hope, then you’ll get huge satisfaction from this role. Your influence will not only impact the lives of youth and/or adults, but the community as a whole. Laradon staff work extremely hard and are challenged every day, but they play a key role in supporting the well-being of the individuals that we serve.
We are seeking a Paraprofessional to support the Laradon School.
Reporting to the Special Education Teacher, this role will support Laradon’s mission by aiding students (max 2:1 ratio) with significant support needs and high behaviors in achieving their maximum potential by working with the Special Education Teacher to meet Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals, increase educationally acceptable behaviors and create a safe, positive learning environment.
No day is ever alike but you can generally look forward to the following responsibilities: Implement, track and record IEP goals, behavior support plans, crisis intervention techniques and any other skill areas needing improvement.
Implement behavior support plans, crisis intervention techniques, and proactive/preventative techniques including physical management and positive reinforcement.
Provide supervision while actively engaging students.
Manage crisis according to established policies/procedures/guidelines.
Effectively communicate, collaborate and coordinate with team members.
Complete documentation according to procedures.
Maintain respect, dignity and confidentiality of students, staff and parents.
Maintain clean environment and be a positive role model to others.
Drive participants as necessary for program needs.
Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
As Laradon is a small employer and employees work in a collaborative, team environment, employee must be physically present in the office to perform the different job functions.
Other duties as assigned.
We proudly support our employees by providing the following benefits for this position: Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance/FSA 401(k) + 4% Match 8 Weeks of Paid Breaks/Holidays and 100 Hours of Accrued Paid Time Off Annually FAMLI Leave Tuition and Certification Reimbursement Student Loan Assistance Laradon is a qualifying employer for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program Employee Assistance Program Voluntary Long Term Disability, Life, Cancer, Accident, and Pet Insurance Referral Bonuses (get paid to work with friends!) Committee participation opportunities (DEIB/A, Safety) Development, job growth, and internal training The opportunity to work in a dynamic, supportive, and rewarding environment alongside other Laradon staff – one where everyone is truly appreciated CDC and CDPHE protocols to ensure the safety and welfare of all employees.
We believe in providing continuing education and development opportunities for our employees.
To start you off right in your position, we’ll make sure you are trained in the following: Orientation Mandatory Reporting Incident Reporting First Aid/CPR Safety Care/Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Defensive Driving Person Centered Training Trauma Informed Care Professional Boundaries We look forward to what you will bring to our workplace: High School Diploma required.
One or more years’ experience working with children with developmental disabilities and/or emotional/behavioral disorders in an educational or instructional setting, preferred.
Be at least 21 years of age.
Ability to demonstrate patience, flexibility, strong communication skills and positive attitude.
Valid drivers license and a good driving record.
Ability to be a Qualified Medication Administration Person, preferred.
Physical requirements include the ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force; physical condition to enable walking, standing, sitting, stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling; stamina to be on feet and active for full work days.
Must frequently lift or move objects weighing up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
Must be able to successfully pass Safety Care training and preemployment physical examination.
Our commitment to you once you get here: Our DEIB/A policy supports and strengthens Laradon’s mission of promoting advocacy, community access and independence for the individuals we serve and celebrating the unique differences and abilities of our employees.
Laradon strives to foster a culture that celebrates diversity, ensuring that each member of our community has equal opportunities to thrive and contribute their unique perspectives.
We are committed to promoting equity and accessibility by identifying and eliminating systemic barriers that may hinder the growth and advancement of underrepresented groups through intentional and inclusive practices.
To provide culturally aware services to individuals, students, guests, and staff/employees, our hiring practices reflect our values by offering an environment that celebrates diversity and embraces inclusion. All of our team members – regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, language, abilities/disabilities, veteran status, religion, citizenship, socioeconomic status, geographic region, or other defining characteristics – should feel a sense of belonging and value. We strive for excellence in every role within Laradon and select the most qualified people who embrace and embody our mission and values. Our Values: Inclusion | Compassion | Advocacy | Respect | Empowerment
Requires a high school diploma, a valid driver's license, and must be at least 21 years of age. Experience working with children with developmental disabilities or behavioral disorders is preferred.
Market context
In Colorado, teaching assistant openings are often driven by classroom support needs, student services, and school staffing cycles. These roles can be competitive because employers may look for reliability, a high school diploma or equivalent, Safe Environment compliance, and respect for the Catholic faith. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your credentials and readiness to meet any school-specific compliance steps before applying.
