The Vanguard School
Location
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Salary
$18 - $18 / HOUR
Provide instructional, behavioral, and functional support to students with disabilities to help them achieve goals outlined in IEPs and 504 Plans. Collaborate with special education staff and families to implement behavior intervention plans and maintain a positive learning environment.
A high school diploma or GED is required, with a preference for candidates who have experience working with children or students with diverse learning needs. Candidates must be able to pass a background check and meet physical requirements, including lifting up to 50 pounds.
The mission of The Vanguard School is to guide students in the development of their character and academic potential through academically rigorous, content-rich educational programs. The Special Education Paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, and functional support to students receiving special education services. Working under the supervision of licensed special education staff, this position assists students in achieving academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and functional goals outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and other educational plans. The ideal candidate is student-focused, collaborative, patient, and committed to supporting students with diverse learning needs in a positive and inclusive educational environment.
Student Support Provide academic, behavioral, and physical assistance to students with disabilities in individual, small-group, and classroom settings. Support implementation of student accommodations, modifications, and goals outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Section 504 Plans. Assist students with organization, task completion, and classroom participation. Reinforce instructional concepts and learning activities under the direction of certified staff. Promote student independence while providing appropriate levels of support. Behavioral and Social-Emotional Support Assist in implementing behavior intervention plans and classroom behavior management strategies. Support students who may demonstrate challenging, disruptive, aggressive, or unsafe behaviors. Utilize approved de-escalation and behavior management techniques (training provided upon hire). Maintain a calm, supportive, and professional approach when addressing student behavioral needs. Collaboration and Communication Work collaboratively with special education teachers, general education teachers, related service providers, administrators, and families as appropriate. Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities. Communicate effectively regarding student progress, concerns, and support needs. Maintain confidentiality regarding student records and educational information. Administrative and Clerical Support Assist with preparation and organization of instructional materials and classroom resources. Maintain accurate records, data collection, and documentation as assigned. Provide clerical support for special education services and student programming. Support compliance requirements related to special education documentation and reporting. Professional Responsibilities Positively represent The Vanguard School and its mission to students, families, staff, and community members. Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and flexibility in daily responsibilities. Support the educational goals and initiatives of the Student Services Department. Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Required Qualifications Education High School Diploma or GED required. Experience Experience working with children preferred. Experience supporting students with disabilities, behavioral needs, or diverse learning needs preferred. School-based experience preferred but not required.
Physical Requirements Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and movement throughout the school day. Ability to assist students with physical needs as required. Ability to occasionally lift, move, or support up to 50 pounds. Ability to participate in approved physical management and safety interventions when necessary (training provided).
Work Environment School-based educational environment. Frequent interaction with students, staff, and families. May include supporting students with significant academic, behavioral, emotional, or physical needs. May require working in classrooms, therapy settings, common areas, and outdoor environments.
Eligible employees may receive: Health Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Life Insurance Long-Term Disability Insurance Paid Time Off Employee Assistance Program (if applicable) Participation in Colorado PERA
Disclaimers You are required to disclose relevant issues related to criminal history, employment history, and licensure history in order to apply.
All employees must submit to and pass a CBI/FBI fingerprint background check as a condition of employment. The Vanguard School is subject to all federal and state laws and constitutional provisions prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, or ancestry in its programs and activities.
Applicants who upload a copy of their transcripts or certifications may choose to redact dates of birth and dates of attendance, graduation, or completion. An un-redacted copy may be requested if an employment offer is extended. Submitted résumés may also exclude dates of attendance or graduation for high school and/or post-secondary education.
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.
Salary benchmark
$42,029 avg / yr
Typical range: $38,480–$47,474 based on 189 active listings in Colorado
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