What are the responsibilities and job description for the Paraeducator - Instructional Elementary Grades K-5 position at St. Mary's County Public Schools?
Current benefited staff of SMCPS who submit a timely application and meet the minimum qualifications for the position shall be granted an interview and shall be considered to fill the vacancy prior to external applicants being considered. Questions regarding your application and/or candidacy should be directed to the Department of Human Resources.
POSITION: Paraeducator - Instructional Elementary Grades K-5
REPORTS TO: Site Administrator
LOCATION: Park Hall Elementary School
SALARY: The salary for this position will be based on EASMC-ESP salary schedule for ten-month, seven-hour employees – Range 9 ($27,451 - $41,521).
EFFECTIVE: August 2025
APPLICATION PROCEDURES:
NATURE OF WORK:
The paraeducator will work under the direction of the classroom teacher to support the delivery of developmentally appropriate learning opportunities. The position is a ten-month position that has the responsibility to provide instructional support to students and support for teachers. The position will support the instructional needs of the classroom. The work is performed under the general direction of the classroom teacher and in collaboration with the school administration. The paraeducator may be assigned by the building principal or the principal’s designee to support any elementary grade level (Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 5), as needed.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Ability to professionally relate to and collaborate with co-workers, students, and community members
- Understand and maintain confidentiality in dealing with students, staff, and parents
- Ability to use technology effectively to complete tasks
- Ability to report to work daily and on time
- Ability to work independently
- Ability to follow both written and verbal instructions
- Ability to work under pressure
- Possess effective organizational skills
- Possess effective written and oral communication skills
- Possess knowledge of the programs, policies, and procedures of the St. Mary’s County Public School System
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Meets regularly with the teacher at a designated time for planning and evaluating student's progress
- Assists in developing learning activities with the teacher
- Assists in guiding students in working and playing with others
- Provides escort and assistance to students as necessary
- Assists in the supervision of students on trips and other school related activities;
- Prepares, under the direction of the teacher, appropriate learning activities, stations, and materials
- Reinforces learning activities with appropriate audio visual aids and other materials
- Assists teacher in maintaining neat and safe work and study areas
- Assists in activities planned for and with parents
- Supports as needed elementary grade levels K-Grade 5
- Attends workshops and in-service training sessions
- Performs other related and non-related job duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS:
Required:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Forty-eight (48) semester college credits or successful completion Paraprofessional Test (documents must be uploaded to your application)
Preferred
- Related college courses or training
- Experience working with children
TERM OF EMPLOYMENT:
Full-time ten-month position.
SALARY GRADE RANGE: The salary for this position will be based on EASMC-ESP salary schedule for ten-month seven-hour employees – Range 9.
BARGAINING UNIT ELIGIBILITY: EASMC-ESP
Updated 7.2024, 5.2025
Salary : $27,451 - $41,521
