Special Education Assistant

ISD 728·Elk River, Minnesota

$22 - $22/hrFull Time On Site 0-2 yrsPosted 17 days ago

Practice for this role

Special Education Assistant · $22 - $22/hr

How this role compares

Computed from live listings

+21% vs. median posted rate for teaching assistant roles in Minnesota ($18.20/hr)

3 similar openings in the Elk River area

$14.00/hr · p10p90 · $26.00/hr

this role: $22.08/hrmedian $18.20/hr

Shaded band: the middle 50% of posted teaching assistant roles in Minnesota rates. This role sits in the 75th percentile.

About the role

Pay for this role is about 21% above the Minnesota median for teaching assistant roles.

The Special Education Assistant will support lead teachers in delivering individualized instruction and implementing behavior intervention plans for students with diverse needs. They will also assist with data collection, classroom organization, and personal care tasks for students with disabilities.

Are you ready to educate, inspire, and empower diverse learners?

Come make a difference at Elk River Area ISD 728, the eighth-largest school district in the state!

We are a rapidly growing, forward-thinking district dedicated to shaping our students' futures so they can accomplish their dreams and contribute positively to our local and global communities.

Help us build strong schools and strong communities.

Join us in making a meaningful impact today!

Job Overview: ISD 728 is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Special Education Paraprofessional to join our elementary teams for the 2026-2027 school year.

In this role, you will work closely with Special Education Teachers to support the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth of students with diverse learning needs.

The ideal candidate is patient, adaptable, and passionate about helping every student reach their full potential in a safe and inclusive environment.

Effective Date of Employment: Beginning of the 2026-2027 school year Schedule: 6.5 to 6.75 hours per day, depending on location; 10 month calendar Salary: starts at $22.08 per hour Key Responsibilities: Instructional Support: Assist the lead teacher in delivering individualized or small-group instruction based on students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Student Engagement: Help keep students focused and engaged in general education and special education classroom settings.

Behavioral Support: Implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and assist in de-escalating challenging behaviors using district-approved techniques.

Data Collection: Assist teachers in observing, recording, and charting students' behavioral and academic progress.

Personal Care (if applicable): Assist students with physical or developmental disabilities with daily living activities, which may include feeding, mobility, and personal hygiene.

Classroom Management: Help prepare instructional materials, set up assistive technology, and maintain an organized, welcoming classroom environment.

Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED required. Must meet State of Minnesota Paraprofessional requirements (e.g., an Associate's degree, 60 college credits, or a passing score on the ParaPro Assessment). Previous experience working with children, especially those with special needs, is highly preferred. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to maintain extreme confidentiality regarding student records and needs. Patience, empathy, and a positive attitude.

Requirements

Candidates must hold a High School Diploma or GED and meet Minnesota Paraprofessional requirements, such as an Associate's degree or 60 college credits. Previous experience working with children, particularly those with special needs, is highly preferred.

high school
associate degree
Confidentiality
Empathy
Patience
Communication skills
Interpersonal skills
Data collection
Classroom management
Assistive technology
Special education
Student engagement
Instructional support
Behavior intervention

Posting details

Employment type: Full Time
Work arrangement: On Site
Experience: 0-2 yrs
Salary: $22 - $22/hr
Location: Elk River, Minnesota
Posted: Aug 11, 2026
Closes: Nov 9, 2026
Application: Employer website

Teaching assistant roles in Minnesota schools

In Minnesota, teaching assistant openings are commonly driven by school staffing needs and student support demands, especially for candidates who can meet state or accreditation education and experience requirements. These roles can be competitive because schools look for dependable, energetic people who can actively support children indoors and outdoors while handling physical activity. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your credentials and highlight child-focused experience in your application.