Substitute Paraprofessional

Position Summary

The Substitute Paraprofessional provides instructional, behavioral, personal care, and classroom support to students with diverse learning, developmental, behavioral, communication, and medical needs. Working under the direction of the classroom teacher and school leadership, the Substitute Paraprofessional helps maintain a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment while promoting student engagement, independence, dignity, and educational success.

Assignments may include general classroom support or one-to-one student support and may vary based on daily operational needs.

Student Support

• Support implementation of instructional activities.
• Reinforce classroom instruction individually and in small groups.
• Encourage independence.
• Support communication goals.
• Support behavioral interventions.

Personal Care

• Assist with feeding.
• Toileting.
• Hygiene.
• Mobility.
• Positioning.
• Transfers.
• Adaptive equipment.

Safety

• Maintain active supervision.
• Follow student-specific plans.
• Respond to emergencies.
• Report concerns immediately.
• Maintain confidentiality.

Professional Expectations

• Maintain professional boundaries.
• Arrive prepared.
• Demonstrate flexibility.
• Accept classroom assignments.
• Complete required documentation.
• Participate in required training.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience working with children or individuals with disabilities preferred. School-based, behavioral health, ABA, childcare, direct support professional (DSP), healthcare, or related experience is preferred.
• Ability to communicate professionally, maintain confidentiality, follow written and verbal instructions, and work collaboratively with teachers, therapists, administrators, students, and families.
• Ability to obtain and maintain all required pre-employment clearances and successfully complete required orientation and training.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Employment Requirements:

• New Jersey Department of Education Criminal History Review/Fingerprinting
• Employment eligibility verification (Form I-9)
• Pre-employment physical examination and tuberculosis screening, if required
• Any additional clearances, certifications, or training required by Archbishop Damiano School or applicable law

Per Diem Expectations

This is a non-exempt, per diem position. Employees are scheduled on an as-needed basis to support daily staffing and student needs. Work schedules and hours are not guaranteed and may vary based on operational needs. Assignments may include general classroom support, one-to-one student support, or placement in different classrooms, grade levels, or programs. Employees are expected to demonstrate flexibility and to follow current Archbishop Damiano School policies, procedures, instructional practices, and student support expectations regardless of prior experience in similar settings.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described below are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. With or without reasonable accommodation, employees must be able to frequently stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, pull, and lift throughout the workday. The position requires the ability to lift up to 30 pounds independently and assist with heavier student transfers, positioning, or mobility needs using proper techniques, equipment, and/or assistance from another staff member. Employees must be able to respond promptly during medical, behavioral, or emergency situations and perform personal care responsibilities, including feeding, toileting, hygiene, and mobility assistance, when assigned.