Special Education Paraprofessional @ LOWER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Guadalupe Centers Charter Schools (GCCS) serves more than 1,600 students from PreK–12 and is a free, open-enrollment public charter school system located in Kansas City, Missouri. Over 97% of our students identify as Latinx, and many are bilingual or English learners. Our network includes Guadalupe Centers Elementary School, Guadalupe Centers Middle School, and Guadalupe Centers High School.

GCCS evolved from Guadalupe Centers' educational programs, which are part of the longest continuously operating agency serving the Latinx community in the United States, dating back to 1919. Our deep community roots shape our mission: to prepare all students academically, socially, and emotionally for college, career, and life success.

Why Work at GCCS

Students & Families

Our teachers form strong relationships with students and families through a community-driven approach. The connection between our schools and Guadalupe Centers' historic mission fosters trust and collaboration that support student success.

Staff Autonomy

GCCS teachers are empowered to innovate. We value professional judgment and encourage creative, research-based classroom practices that meet the needs of diverse learners.

Coaching & Development

Each staff member collaborates with their instructional coach and building leadership to set annual professional growth goals aligned to district priorities. Our development model focuses on reflection, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Competitive Benefits

• Competitive salary aligned to experience and certification level
• Relocation stipend (for qualifying hires)
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education (up to lifetime cap per GCCS policy)
• Mental health and well-being support through expanded employee assistance and wellness programs
• 403(b) retirement match up to 5% (for eligible staff)
• Perfect attendance incentive program (up to $1,600 annually)
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

Summary

The Special Education Paraprofessional works under the supervision of a certified Special Education Teacher to support students with disabilities in accessing instruction, developing independence, and making progress toward IEP goals. This role assists with academic instruction, behavior support, daily living skills, and personal care as needed, ensuring services are delivered in compliance with IDEA, Missouri DESE regulations, and GCCS policies.

The Paraprofessional plays a critical role in supporting students' social, physical, and intellectual growth and persistence toward graduation.

Reports To: Building Principal

Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional & Classroom Support

• Collaborate with teachers in team teaching, planning, and daily classroom routines.
• Provide small-group and individual instruction under teacher direction.
• Assist with implementing curriculum, lesson plans, and instructional activities.
• Prepare and organize instructional materials and learning environments.
• Support the use of technology and assistive tools to enhance student learning.

IEP & Student Support

• Implement individual and group activities aligned to students' IEPs.
• Support students with accommodations and modifications across instructional settings.
• Remain with assigned students throughout the school day, including transitions and non-classroom settings, as required.
• Assist students in practicing daily living and functional skills when appropriate.

Behavioral & Personal Care Support

• Provide direct supervision and behavior support using positive, trauma-informed strategies.
• Assist with personal care needs (e.g., toileting, diapering, feeding) as assigned.
• Lift, transfer, and physically assist students safely in accordance with training and student needs.
• Maintain student dignity, safety, and confidentiality at all times.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work cooperatively with teachers, administrators, related service providers, families, and school staff.
• Support parent involvement activities and school programs as requested.
• Communicate effectively with students and adults while maintaining professional boundaries.

Professional Responsibilities

• Attend required professional development, staff meetings, and trainings.
• Provide short-term classroom coverage when the teacher briefly steps out but remains in the building.
• Apply knowledge of human development, learning styles, motivation, and behavior.
• Use American Sign Language (ASL) when assigned to Deaf/Hard of Hearing students.
• Apply Spanish language skills when appropriate to support student communication.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and supportive in high-need or high-stress situations.
• Understanding of IDEA, IEPs, 504 Plans, and special education practices.
• Ability to follow instructional plans and behavior support strategies with fidelity.
• Commitment to serving underserved, culturally and linguistically diverse students.

Education and Experience

• Minimum 60 college credit hours required; Bachelor's Degree in Special Education preferred.
• Experience working with students with disabilities preferred.
• Experience in an urban school setting preferred.
• Bilingual ability — English required; Spanish preferred.
• ASL proficiency required for Deaf/Hard of Hearing assignments.

Note: Paraprofessional positions do not require teacher certification; all duties are performed under the supervision of a certified teacher.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged standing, walking, and movement throughout the school day.
• Ability to lift up to 45 pounds.
• Ability to assist students with physical and mobility needs.
• Ability to kneel, sit on the floor, crawl, push, pull, and reposition as needed.
• Periods of prolonged computer use for documentation.
• Ability to access and navigate all areas of the school and facilities.

Application Process

Please complete an online application at https://www.gck12.org/o/gc/page/work-for-gccs.

Attach your resume, cover letter, transcripts, and certification (if applicable).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Guadalupe Centers Charter Schools (GCCS) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strongly encourage applications from women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, or veteran status. We also prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forward complaints or participate in investigations of discrimination.