Paraeducator

The Paraeducator of Overbrook School for the Blind exudes a passion for the school, its students, and its employees. This position will report directly to the Classroom Teacher and Program Coordinator.

The Mission of Overbrook School for the Blind (OSB) is to develop and deliver education that enhances the options available for persons with visual impairments, including those with additional challenges so that they have the greatest opportunity to experience active and fulfilling lives.

Job Functions: The Paraeducator supports the classroom teacher in all instructional and non-instructional activities, as outlined in student Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and in accordance with school policies and procedures. This role requires flexibility, collaboration, and a commitment to supporting student learning and well-being.

• Assist the teacher with daily classroom activities and instructional support, including implementation of lesson plans and IEP goals.
• Provide support to students during special subject classes (e.g., Art, Music, Physical Education, and Swimming), unless medically excused.
• Collect and document data on student progress toward IEP goals and objectives.
• Implement all aspects of specially designed instruction and behavior plans as outlined in each student’s IEP, including communication systems, feeding, and therapy protocols.
• Support students with personal health and hygiene, including diapering and toileting, as needed.
• Assist students during lunchtime and help with lunch preparation and related activities.
• Participate in all required and scheduled in-service trainings, professional development, and staff meetings.
• Maintain a minimum of 20 hours of training each school year.
• Assist with classroom preparation, including bulletin boards, copying, making instructional materials, and data collection tools.
• Perform assigned bus duty in the morning (AM), which may include picking up students from the residential program.
• Supervise and support students in the teacher’s absence, reinforcing previously taught goals and instructional content.
• Follow and uphold all policies and procedures outlined in the employee handbook.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student and family information; share such information only with appropriate staff or administration.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the teacher, program coordinator, or school administration, which may include coverage in other classrooms or programs as needed.
• Note: Paraeducators must remain engaged during all assigned instructional and student support periods, including Physical Education and lunch ; breaks are not permitted during these times when working with students.

Minimum Education and Experience Qualifications:

• High school diploma + PA Paraeducator Certification or Associates Degree or two complete years from an accredited college or university
• CPR/First Aid certifications or the willingness to acquire it.
• Valid Driver's License is required for most programs (for Full Time employees and desirable for Substitute Teacher Aides)
• Other preferred skills: Braille, Sign language, and use of adaptive equipment for individuals with physical challenges including feeding tubes.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment :

• Lifting: must be able to lift 50-lbs minimum, with assistance. Participate in 2 person lifts.
• Working Environment : Employees are subject to accidents and/or injuries, which may be incurred during the performance of the essential functions of the position. Work is primarily indoors but some outdoor activities may be required.

Benefits and Pay:

OSB offers a competitive salary and benefits package reflective of the applicant’s training and experience, including liberal financial support for the pursuit of advanced degrees. Applications from members of communities traditionally under-represented in school administrative positions are invited.

Overbrook School for the Blind Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Overbrook School for the Blind (OSB) has, and will continue to follow, a policy of recruiting, employing and promoting individuals best qualified for any position by reason of education, training, and experience without regard to race, color, ancestry, genetic information, familial or marital status, domestic or sexual violence victimization, ethnicity, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or a related medical condition), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or non-job-related disability or the use of a guide or support animal because of blindness, deafness or physical disability. OSB shall not discriminate against an individual who has exercised his/her rights against discrimination in accordance with applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Overbrook School for the Blind offers a competitive salary and benefits package reflective of the applicant’s training and experience.