Elementary School Paraprofessional

Paraprofessional

Who We Are

Purpose Built Schools [https://purposebuiltschoolsatlanta.org/], in partnership with Atlanta Public Schools (APS), operates three neighborhood schools in South Atlanta: Slater Elementary School [https://purposebuiltschoolsatlanta.org/schools/slater-elementary/] (PreK-5), Price Middle School [https://purposebuiltschoolsatlanta.org/schools/price-middle-school/] (6-8) and Carver STEAM Academy [https://purposebuiltschoolsatlanta.org/schools/carver-steam-academy/] (9-12). As a network of partner schools, we have the flexibility and autonomy similar to charter schools, but remain true neighborhood schools that serve every student in our attendance zone.

• What Makes Us Different Purpose Built Schools Atlanta delivers outstanding results for students and families through high-quality academics, engaging enrichment, holistic supports, and a commitment to neighborhood schools.
• Academics:Project-based learning, STEAM curriculum, small group instruction, AP courses, targeted interventions, and college & career readiness counseling.
• Enrichment:Opportunities in band, dance, aviation, sports, art, robotics, and more to help students explore passions and talents.
• Supports:Partnerships providing wraparound services—mental health, SEL, legal aid, and access to fresh food.
• Neighborhood Schools:Open to every student in our attendance zone, offering a PreK–12 pipeline close to home.

How We Work

At Purpose Built Schools Atlanta, our work is guided by five core values

• Wholeness, Excellence, Ownership, Learning, and Community.
• Wholeness– We engage the whole child and the whole employee because we believe in the full potential of every person.
• Excellence– We hold unapologetically high standards for ourselves, our students, and each other.
• Ownership– We take initiative and embrace responsibility for outcomes, assuming accountability for the end results, not just our part.
• Learning– We cultivate a mindset that challenges the status quo, values feedback, and embraces growth and adaptability.
• Community– We know our schools and neighborhoods are stronger when we work together, building authentic partnerships with families and communities.

These values shape how we teach, lead, and serve—ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive on purpose.

Role & Responsibilities

• The Paraprofessional sits on the Academic Team, reporting to the Principal. This person will drive student results by:
• Instructional & Student Support (50%)
• Deliver small group and one-on-one instructionin accordance with students' IEPs and teacher lesson plans.
• Implement Behavior Intervention Plans and track student progress toward goals.
• Support students in classroom participation, assignments, and transitions throughout the day.
• Provide assistance tostudents with physical needs such as feeding, toileting, lifting, and mobility.
• Support students' use of assistive technology and adaptive equipment.
• Classroom & School Operations (25%)
• Assistteachers with preparation of classroom materials and daily lesson plans.
• Monitor students during transitions, in hallways, cafeterias, and recess.
• Assistwith cleaning and sanitation of learning spaces to uphold safety standards.
• Distribute learning materials, supplies, technology, and food as needed.
• Support standardized testing implementation and logistics.
• Family & School Communication (10%)
• Proactively communicate with teachers about student progress and concerns.
• Support classroom teachers in communicating with families regarding student needs.
• Participate in meetings or trainings to better understand student needs and school policies.
• Data & Compliance (10%)
• Collect and document instructional and behavioral data to support IEP goals and evaluations.
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to school and district protocols related to student records and services.
• Professionalism & Collaboration (5%)
• Engage in professional learning opportunities and in-service trainings.
• Collaborate with school staff and service providers to support a team-based approach to student services.
• Assist with training and guiding volunteers, as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by school leadership.

Qualifications

All PBSA employees must have the belief that all children can learn, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, proficiency in using technology, and ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Additionally, this person will need the following qualifications to be successful:

• Education & Certifications
• Associate’s Degree or higher from an accredited institution, or
• 60+ semester hours of college coursework, or
• High School Diploma/GED and passing score on the GACE Paraprofessional Assessment Test.
• Must hold a valid Georgia Professional Standards Commission Paraprofessional Certificate

• Experience & Key Skills
• 2+ years of experience working with children, preferably in a school or youth development setting.
• Experience supporting students with disabilities is strongly preferred.
• Understanding ofchild development and learning strategies for students with diverse needs.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Basicproficiencyin academic subjects and classroom technology tools.
• Ability to follow instructional plans and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.
• Dependability, adaptability, anda proactiveproblem-solver mindset.
• Ability tomaintainstudent confidentiality and respond professionally to sensitive situations.
• Physical ability toassiststudents with mobility, lifting, and daily care routines.
• Commitment to the mission and values ofPurpose BuiltSchools Atlanta.

Compensation and Benefits

Purpose Built Schools offers comprehensive benefits and a competitive salary that credits an additional step relative to verified years of experience under Atlanta Public Schools policy.

• Exceptional Benefits & Perks
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Three competitive plans to get the coverage that works best for your family.
• Legal Support & Financial Counseling– Get expert advice for peace of mind and support with our 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Wellness Programs– From mental health resources to fitness incentives, we invest in your well-being.
• Paid a Step Ahead– We offer salaries ahead of APS and rank among the highest-paying school networks in Atlanta.

A Culture That Puts You First

• We believe happy educators create the best learning environments. That’s why we prioritize staff well-being with:
• Enhanced Teacher Lounges– Designed for relaxation and recharging.
• Wellness Events & Offerings– Mindfulness sessions, health perks, and more.
• Monthly Staff Socials– Enjoy food, drinks, and great company at Atlanta’s trendylocations on us.
• And Yes…FREE FOOD! All staff enjoy complimentaryl unch every school day.