About this role
POSITION TITLE
Physical Education Paraprofessional (PE Para)/Classroom Aide
REPORTS TO
Principal and Assistant Principal
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
185 days with benefits provided according to Siloam Springs School Board policies.
Job Summary
We are seeking an energetic, patient, and proactive Paraprofessional to join our staff. In this role, you will split time between the gym and the classrooms; working directly alongside our Physical Education and Classroom teachers. The main goal for this position is to help provide a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
Your primary focus during PE will be supporting students who need extra assistance, managing equipment, monitoring safety during high-energy activities, and helping implement daily lesson plans. The focus of classroom time will be to assist with academic, social-emotional and behavioral needs and support classroom instruction along with supervision duties.
Key Responsibilities
Instructional & Student Support
Small-Group Leading: Lead specific stations, warm-ups, or small-group activities as directed by the teacher.
1-on-1 Assistance: Provide direct support to students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or behavioral plans during instruction.
Encourage Engagement: Motivate students of all skill levels to participate, practice sportsmanship, and try their best and/or use engagement strategies in the classroom.
Safety & Supervision
Active Monitoring: Keep a watchful eye on students during high-motion games to prevent injuries and resolve conflicts quickly.
Supervise students: during transitions, lunch and breakfast times and recess as needed.
Logistics & Equipment Management
Setup and Takedown: Prepare the gym or field before class (setting up cones, nets, balls) and clean up afterward.
Inventory & Maintenance: Help track sports equipment and report any damaged or unsafe items to the lead teacher.
Sanitization: Ensure shared equipment (mats, pinnies/pennies, helmets) is cleaned and sanitized regularly.
Qualifications & Skills
Required
- High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
- Ability to pass a state-required background check and fingerprinting.
- Physical stamina to be on your feet, move quickly, and lift/carry sports equipment (up to 40 lbs) throughout the school day.
- Strong communication skills and a patient, positive attitude toward children.
- Provide evidence of passing the Arkansas State Board of Education adopted Praxis Paraprofessional Assessment
Preferred
- An Associate's Degree, 60+ college credits, or passing score on a ParaPro Assessment (often required by public school districts).
- Previous experience working with children in a school, camp, daycare, or youth sports setting.
- Basic CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain it upon hire).
- Understanding of behavior management strategies.
Work Environment & Schedule
- Schedule: Full-time hours, e.g., Monday–Friday, 7:20 AM – 3:20 PM] following the school calendar.
- Location: Alternates between an indoor gymnasium and classrooms, cafeteria and playground.