DeKalb County Schools - Paraprofessional

Paraprofessional – DeKalb County Schools

Location: DeKalb County, GA

Employer: Comprehensive Therapy Consultants (Contracted through DeKalb County School District)

Position: Paraprofessional – General / Special Education

Schedule: 10‑month school year

Reports to: School Principal and Classroom Teacher

Classification: Paraprofessional II (PA2) – Non‑Exempt

Position Overview

Under the supervision of certified teachers and school administration, the paraprofessional supports the educational, behavioral, and social–emotional development of students. This role includes implementation of lesson plans, facilitating classroom management, assisting with assessments, and providing direct instructional support both in general and special education settings. 

Core Responsibilities

• Deliver small-group or individual instruction based on teacher-developed lesson plans. 

• Support daily classroom behavior management to foster a productive learning environment. 

• Assist with standardized and informal assessments, including recording and documentation of student progress. 

• Prepare, organize, and ensure availability of instructional materials. 

• Provide physical support for students as needed (e.g., feeding, toileting, mobility), particularly in special education contexts. 

• Monitor and supervise students during non‑instructional times (e.g., transitions, lunchroom, bus lines). 

• Support implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) for students with special needs. 

• Assist with health‑related care as required (e.g., hygiene, administering medication under supervision). 

• Undertake clerical tasks: attendance maintenance, data entry, copying, filing. 

• Participate in school‑wide duties such as hall, lunch, recess, and bus supervision. 

• Collaborate with teachers, therapists, counselors, and parents to support student learning.

• Participate in required training, including behavior management, crisis response, and professional development.

Qualifications

Education & Certification (choose one):

• High school diploma or GED + pass GACE Paraprofessional Assessment; OR

• Associate degree or higher (60 semester hours) from a Georgia PSC–approved institution; OR

• Minimum of 60 semester or 90 quarter hours of college with ≥2.0 GPA 

• Valid Georgia Professional Standards Commission Paraprofessional Certificate required. 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Understanding of Georgia curriculum standards, state testing requirements, and IEP/BIP procedures. ()

• Effective oral/written communication and interpersonal skills. 

• Strong skills in classroom management, record keeping, and behavior guidance. 

• Physical ability to assist students (lifting, supporting mobility, etc.). 

• Capacity to follow lesson plans and adapt instructional approaches for varied learners. 

• Teamwork and professional collaboration with faculty, staff, and families.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent sitting, standing, walking, assisting with mobility, and occasional lifting and carrying of students or materials. 

Preferred Attributes

• Experience working with special education, ESOL, or general education students.

• Training or comfort with crisis intervention/de‑escalation techniques.

• Multilingual abilities, especially in prevalent local community languages.

• Demonstrated empathy, patience, and strong organizational skills.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit a resume, copies of transcripts/certifications, and GACE scores to Comprehensive Therapy Consultants. Qualified candidates will be invited for an interview and demonstration of teaching/support strategies.