MISSIONBridge Boston Charter School is an inclusive and joyful community that combines a dynamic academic and social-emotional learning program with an innovative full-service model in order to meet the needs of the whole child and ensure our Scholars can achieve their greatest potential inhigh school and beyond. VISIONIn collaboration with our families and community partners, we shape curious, creative, and resilient 21st-century Scholars who are equipped to make a bold difference in our world. OVERVIEWBridge Boston Charter School is a tuition-free, K1-8 public school serving 335 students in Roxbury, Massachusetts, and the surrounding community- many of whom have experienced social, emotional, and developmental barriers to learning. Bridge Boston's robust social-emotional program is designed with an eye to supporting students who have experienced trauma in their homes and communities. CORE VALUESJoy: We try to bring a positive energy to everything we do and create opportunities to celebrate our individual and collective success.Achievement: We strive for excellence and hold each other and ourselves accountable to the highest of standards. Generosity: We look for opportunities to help one another and lift up other members of our community.Unity: We are one team and resolve our differences respectfully so we can move forward as a united front.Acceptance: We strive to create an inclusive and welcoming community where everyone feels known and valued. Resilience: We confront challenges and adversity head-on and never, ever give up.Bridge Boston also has a Foundation Board that is a 501c non-profit for fundraising to support the school. Learn more about Bridge Boston here.THE POSITIONThe Special Education Paraprofessional, reporting to the Academic & Behavior Specialist-Special Educator, is dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of students qualifying for special education services, including those diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This role is integral to facilitating both academic and self-help skill development, as well as social and behavioral growth. At Bridge Boston Charter School, we strive to balance academic instruction with the development of essential self-help skills, and this position is crucial in advancing our mission to provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students. The paraprofessional will work closely with the special education team to ensure that each student receives the appropriate support to thrive academically and personally.Specifically, they will be responsible for:
- Student Support
- Provide one-on-one or small group support, supervision, and instruction for early childhood students with disabilities, including those that are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Communication Impairments, both within the inclusion classroom and in various other settings as needed.
- Assist students with physical or social disabilities with activities of daily living to maximize their ability to participate in school or learning activities.
- Use alternative communication methods (e.g., AAC devices, picture exchange communication systems, sign language) to support nonverbal students.
- Manage toileting needs, including toilet training, diapering, and assisting students in the restroom, ensuring their dignity and privacy.
- Behavioral Support
- Sustain a school-wide culture of respect and actively use the school's behavior system.
- Assist General Education classroom teachers and the Special Education department in developing and implementing behavior goals, plans, and positive behavior strategies.
- Deliver direct Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) treatment services to children diagnosed with Autism, including conducting sessions in various school settings (if applicable and as directed)
- Provide discrete trial teaching techniques and manage maladaptive behaviors (if applicable and as directed)
- Collect and accurately record behavioral, social, academic, and other data as required per each student's specific goals and programming.
- Classroom and School Support
- Provide student support during lunch, dismissal, recess, transitions, and other related non-instructional areas.
- Foster a supportive and encouraging learning environment that boosts students' confidence and interest in learning.
- Collaboration and Communication
- Work closely and collaboratively with related service providers, program consultants, and general education teachers to provide students with a comprehensive educational program.
- Attend conferences and IEP meetings to contribute to the development and review of students' educational plans (as directed)
- Support and engage with a diverse staff and student body from Boston and surrounding cities.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree preferred
- Prior experience working with students with Autism Spectrum Disorder/Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities
- Training and/or applicable experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) prefered.
- Certification as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) strongly preferred
- Two or more years work experience with early childhood or elementary students with disabilities, preferably in a school setting
- Licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education in a related field, while not required, considered a plus
- Demonstrated cultural competence and sensitivity; belief in the value of diversity
- Clear willingness to make and learn from mistakes