Date of Notice: March 30, 2026

Job Title: Special Education Paraprofessional

Location: Luzerne Intermediate Unit 18 - Various Locations

Reports To: Supervisor of Special Education

Terms of Employment: Full – Time

Hiring Timeline: Fall 2026

JOB DESCRIPTION

Qualifications:

Highly Qualified Status - defined as meeting one of the following:

1. High school diploma and 48 college credits
2. Associates degree or higher
3. Passed a rigorous local assessment based on PDE Credentialed Competencies Special Education Paraprofessionals (verification must be provided)

Classifications: Support Staff

Reports To: Supervisor of Special Education

Job Summary: A special education paraprofessional assists in the instructional and behavioral programs and provides physical assistance, if needed, for students with disabilities. Duties range from instructional to physical activities. The paraprofessional works with individuals and small groups of students receiving special education services under the direction of the teacher(s) in general and special education classroom settings.

Essential Job Functions:

1. Assists teacher(s) in implementing IEPs (Individual Education Program).
2. Assists teacher(s) in the implementation of the evaluation of activities, grading papers, and working with various assigned groups. Assists a classroom professional with testing activities.
3. Assists with student supervision in the classroom.
4. Assist with implementing student behavior management programs. Maintains an awareness of and assists with students' emotional problems and physical needs as directed by the teacher.
5. Works directly with students with disabilities either in small groups, one-on-one, or in large groups in the general education classroom, under the direction of the classroom teacher.
6. Provides personal assistance to students when needed, including but not limited to; tying shoes, dressing, feeding, assist or supervise in the rest room, lifting, dressing, diapering, transfers (from wheelchair to another location).
7. Attends field trips and other curricular programs (such as swimming) when directed.
8. Assists teacher in related classroom activities such as ordering/organizing materials and supplies, attendance notices, lunch, etc.
9. Utilizes special education specific computer hardware/software.
10. Completion and documentation of 20 in-service training hours per year (July I through June 30)
11. Performs other duties as assigned and in conformance with overall needs of students' special education programs

Temperament:

1. Must possess excellent interpersonal skills
2. Must be cooperative, congenial, and service-oriented
3. Good communication skills
4. Good problem-solving skills

Cognitive Ability:

1. Ability to follow written and verbal directions Ability to read, write and perform math
2. Ability to communicate effectively
3. Ability to organize tasks
4. Ability to handle multiple tasks

Work Environment:

1. Typical school environment, subject to inside environmental conditions.
2. May be exposed to body fluids if assisting students with personal care

Terms of Employment:

Salary and benefits are in accordance with Bargaining Unit Contract.

Evaluation: Performance evaluated by the direct supervisor in accordance with the administrative procedure for evaluating non-professional employees.

The Luzerne Intermediate Unit #18 is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, sex or non-relevant handicap in activities, programs or employment practices. For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, contact Human Resources, 570-718-4648.