Summary Description Of Classification

At the direction of the principal, this paraeducator performs a variety of tasks that promote student learning and well-being to support students with Individualized Education Programs (IEP). The paraeducator may be required to assist students with various needs related to academic, behavioral, social, emotional, and physical support. Successful student support will include attending to student personal care and medical needs and may require work with students that display physical and/or verbal aggression. The paraeducator at this level may be required to participate with students in learning activities off of school grounds. The paraeducator work at this level is focused on facilitating the student mastery of grade-level curriculum or mastery of Alternate Academic Achievement Standards. The students supported at this level typically participate in specialized instructional settings throughout the school day. This position also performs a variety of instructional and classroom management supports, as well as related clerical tasks to support teachers and other professional staff in all classrooms or learning environments. All new paraeducators are hired at a grade 17 and have the opportunity to promote to a grade 18 after successfully completing the six-month probationary period and successfully completing the required number of training hours. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: (Special requirements such as lifting heavy objects and frequent climbing.) Frequent bending, walking, kneeling, running, and lifting of objects/equipment up to 50 pounds may be required. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: (Frequent overtime or night work required, etc.) Outside duty may be required. Must be able to accommodate flexible scheduling and change of location and/or program, as needed. Continues planned instructional activities during teacher's temporary absence from the classroom. Specialized training (provided by MCPS) in alignment with the assignment special education services required within 6 months of starting in the position.

Job Specific Information

This position is for a 7 hour paraeducator in the Learning for Independence (LFI) special education program.

Job

School Instructional Support

Job Grade

17-18

Organization

Walt Whitman High School

Primary Location

Bethesda

Schedule

Full-time

Working Months

10

Shift

Day Job

Job Posting

Jun 12, 2026, 7:51:25 AM

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

Knowledge of child development, instructional strategies and practices applicable to assignment, and instructional goals and policies of Montgomery County Public Schools. Ability to assist with implementation of the instructional program and to participate in monitoring and ensuring appropriate student behavior. Ability to exhibit patient behavior and to work effectively with children, young adults, and staff members. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and to perform all required tasks. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Ability to read/write/speak English. Ability to interact with and support students with special needs. Knowledge of standard computer hardware and software such as Google Workspace, MS Office and web-based instructional tools. Knowledge of and the ability to quickly learn and meet the seven core competencies of the Supporting Services Professional Growth System (SSPGS).

Education, Training, And Experience

These requirements are in order of preference.1.Associate?s degree, required. Bachelor?s degree preferred. College course work should include a minimum of nine credit-hours related to education field such as behavior management, instructional strategies. One year of experience working with students in structured educational (or academic) situations preferred. If no related education course work, then two to four years of experience working with children and adolescents in a structured setting such as a daycare, pre-school, etc. required.OR2. At least 48 college credits and two years of experience in an in a structured setting such as a daycare, pre-school, adult day program, after-school program, extended day, or school/non-school based departments, etc.OR3.Two years of experience in a structured setting such as a daycare, pre-school, adult day program, after-school program, extended day, or school/non-school based departments, etc. Successful completion of the ParaPro Assessment with a qualifying score of 455 or higher is required.OR4. Any combinations of applicable education, training, and experience which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: None.