Location
Swarthmore, Pennsylvania
The Paraeducator assists teachers in delivering educational instruction and implementing Individualized Education Plans (IEP) for children and young adults with disabilities. Responsibilities include managing classroom behaviors, providing 1:1 support, and facilitating community-based instruction and transportation.
Candidates must have an associate degree or equivalent post-secondary credits and at least two years of experience working with school-age children. A valid driver's license and the ability to perform CPR and crisis intervention are required.
Assists classroom teacher and related service team in the management and delivery of all aspects of children's programs and instruction in large, small, and individual groups. Assists classroom teacher in planning and preparation of instructional activities including selection of instructional and collateral educational materials. Implements individual behavior plans/protocols, with support from Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA) and classroom teacher. Monitors children's behaviors in the classroom, during lunch and at special activities outside, in the motor room and in the sensory room and provides necessary observations to team members. Prepares daily classroom materials. Actively participates in team meetings and other pertinent discussions of children served by the program. Assists in creating and organizing an optimal classroom environment including, but not limited to, setting up schedules, routines, and workspaces. Collects data specific to progress monitoring and behavior. Participates in development and implementation of IEP goals and objectives. Assists in maintaining consistency and integrity of program by participating in program assessment. Implements curriculum and Individualized Education Programs as developed by the IEP team. Performs cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and crisis intervention using agency-trained protocols. Assists children with daily living skills including, but not limited to, toileting, participation in classroom mealtimes, hygiene activities, and classroom activities involving dressing. Provides 1:1 support to students as needed and required. Provide instructional support to students and young adults with multiple disabilities in the community setting during community-based instruction (CBI) to assist them with demonstrating character and competencies for workplace and/or community success as assigned and required. Operates agency-provided vehicles and ensures the safe transportation of individuals served, including following required safety and wheelchair securement procedures for mobility devices. Performs other duties as assigned. QualificationsEducation/Experience/Skills Requirements Associate degree; or completion of at least two (2) years of post-secondary study (48 credits); or the successful completion of a state or locally developed assessment in reading, writing, and mathematics. Two (2) years' experience working with school-age children required; experience working with children with developmental disabilities preferred. One (1) year of experience working with individuals living with multiple disabilities, including a strong understanding of the safety and communication support required for individuals with physical disabilities. Demonstrated knowledge of appropriate assessment tools and practices for children ages 5-21 preferred. Demonstrated knowledge of appropriate IEP development and service delivery practices for school age and transition children preferred Knowledge of positive behavior supports preferred. Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment and effectively prioritize tasks. Demonstrated strong attention to detail. Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team. Demonstrated strong time management and organizational skills. Demonstrated excellent judgment with the ability to solve problems and make decisions in consultation with teachers, supervisors, and related services staff. Demonstrated ability to anticipate changes and/or identify issues and take appropriate and effective actions. Excellent customer interaction, collaboration, and written and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated basic experience with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint, and PowerPoint. Knowledge of electronic management/electronic records systems preferred. Must be able to perform CPR, First Aid, and crisis intervention using agency-trained protocols. Must pass and maintain CADES driving and securement certifications. Must possess a current, valid driver's license in the state of residence, have a minimum of three (3) years of driving experience within the United States, and have an acceptable driving record, which will be assessed through a review of the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) record.
Market context
In Pennsylvania, classroom teacher openings often draw candidates with early-childhood or childcare experience, especially when child development knowledge and classroom routines are part of the role. These positions can be competitive because employers look for strong organization, communication, time management, and current First Aid/CPR certification. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit, then confirm the original posting for any credential or schedule details before applying.
Salary benchmark
$43,229 avg / yr
Typical range: $32,240–$48,422 based on 300 active listings in Pennsylvania