About the role
Pay: $20.00 to $21.50 per hour
Description
Support Every Child’s Potential, Right From the Start
Are you passionate about helping children with disabilities thrive in inclusive early learning environments? Do you believe every child deserves support, understanding, and opportunities to grow? If so, we invite you to join our team as a
Paraprofessional
in our Head Start classrooms.
As a Paraprofessional, you’ll work alongside classroom teachers to support preschool children with diagnosed disabilities. You’ll help create a safe, nurturing, and well-organized learning space where all children can access the curriculum, engage in play, and build foundational skills for lifelong success.
What You’ll Do
Support Children with Care and Consistency
Assist teachers in providing instruction and supervision, especially for children with moderate to severe disabilities
Work one-on-one or in small groups to reinforce learning introduced by the teacher
Support daily classroom routines including transitions, meals, and toileting
Use developmentally appropriate language and positive guidance techniques
Help implement classroom activities that align with Head Start, Creative Curriculum, and NAEYC standards
Join field trips and neighborhood walks under teacher supervision
Ensure children’s safety at all times and report any concerns of child abuse or neglect
Assist with bus loading and unloading as needed
Document and Celebrate Growth
Collect observation notes, photos, and approved documentation as directed by the Lead Teacher
Help assess developmental progress and track student milestones
Plan, Prepare, and Participate
Support lesson plan development by researching and contributing age-appropriate activities
Assist in individualizing activities for children with disabilities
Help prepare classroom materials and support bulletin board displays
Participate in team meetings, trainings, and classroom planning sessions
Be a Collaborative Teammate
Communicate regularly with the Lead Teacher, Assistant Teacher, and Site Director
Attend in-services, staff meetings, and professional development sessions
Support administrative tasks including meal count sheets, attendance, and classroom records
Maintain respectful and effective relationships with staff, families, and community partners
Keep Classrooms Clean and Ready to Learn
Sanitize toys, surfaces, and equipment daily and weekly
Maintain an organized, inviting learning environment
Routinely check classroom materials and equipment for safety and repair
Requirements
Education & Experience:
High School Diploma or GED
Valid Paraprofessional License (required)
Experience working with children is preferred
Skills & Qualifications:
Must be at least 18 years old
Team-oriented with strong communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
Willingness to engage in ongoing training and professional development
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, child-centered environment
Basic computer proficiency and strong attention to detail
Bilingual (Spanish) preferred
Physical & Work Environment Expectations
Ability to lift up to 30 pounds, kneel, bend, sit on the floor, and move with children
Regularly required to talk, see, hear, and use hands for tasks
Work takes place in classroom settings with moderate to high noise levels
May work at multiple agency locations and travel between sites for meetings or trainings
Why Join Us
Be part of a dedicated team improving outcomes for children with disabilities
Receive support from experienced teachers, directors, and coordinators
Enjoy ongoing training and opportunities for professional growth
Make a meaningful difference in your community every single day
Compensation & Benefits
Mary Crane Center offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes access to medical, dental, and vision insurance (HMO, PPO, and DPPO options), paid time off, and wellness support programs.
Eligibility and details will be shared during the hiring process.
Ready to make an impact where it matters most?
Apply today and help us build inclusive classrooms where every child has the support they need to succeed.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law. To request accommodations, please contact 773-242-2881 x1004.