Special Education Paraprofessional
| Hours | Full-time |
|---|---|
| Location | Columbus, Ohio |
About this job
Job Description
We believe every learner deserves a safe place to grow. At New Story Schools, teams unite academics and therapeutic supports to help students ages 5–21 build skills for life. If collaboration, compassion, and data-informed practice drive you, join us.
As a Special Education Paraprofessional at New Story Schools, you’ll support students with developmental and learning differences in building confidence, independence, and essential life skills. You’ll assist teachers in the classroom, help students stay engaged in their learning, and provide guidance that fosters both academic and social growth. In addition, paraprofessionals may provide classroom coverage and instructional support in the absence of a teacher, ensuring continuity of student learning and maintaining a structured, supportive environment.
What You’ll Need
High school diploma or equivalent
Previous hands-on experience supporting children, adolescents, or individuals with autism, social-emotional or behavioral challenges, developmental disabilities, or other learning, behavioral, emotional, or developmental needs
Experience in a school, classroom, residential, clinical, childcare, or other structured group environment
Experience using positive behavioral supports and de-escalation techniques while remaining calm and effective in challenging situations
Familiarity with and ability to consistently implement IEPs, behavior intervention plans, safety plans, and other individualized protocols
Strong communication, teamwork, and observational skills, with the ability to collaborate with teachers, BCBAs, service providers, administrators, families, and other professionals
Willingness to receive and apply feedback, coaching, and direction from supervisors and student support team members
Professional, dependable, and accountable, with the ability to maintain confidentiality and accurately document progress, behaviors, incidents, and services
Willingness to complete required training, including crisis prevention/de-escalation and ABA-based practices
Preferred Qualifications
Associate's or bachelor's degree in education, psychology, behavioral health, special education, or a related field
Experience working with students with significant behavioral, emotional, social-emotional, developmental, or educational needs
Experience supporting students with autism or other neurodevelopmental disabilities
Experience working in a special education or therapeutic school setting
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification
Paraprofessional certificate or relevant state-recognized credential
Experience working as part of a multidisciplinary or student support team
Experience supporting students with IEPs or other individualized educational plans
What You’ll Do
Provide small-group classroom support for students with intensive autism needs, including behavioral and skill development
Implement behavior intervention strategies, reinforcement systems, and instructional activities under teacher and BCBA guidance
Support the management of challenging behaviors using approved de-escalation strategies
Collect and record accurate data on student behavior and progress
Maintain a safe, structured, and organized classroom, including preparing materials and supporting daily routines
Provide classroom supervision and support in the absence of a teacher, following established plans and procedures
Follow all safety, documentation, confidentiality, and professional standards
Why You’ll Love Working Here
Enjoy both paid time off and extra paid school breaks (for select roles), plus paid holidays
Wellness perks including gym discounts, mindfulness apps, and prescription savings
Tuition reimbursement, career development programs, and leadership training
401(k) retirement savings with a 4% company match and immediate vesting
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Free Employee Assistance Program with confidential counseling, life coaching, and mental health resources
Life insurance, disability coverage, and Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions at no cost to you
New Story Schools is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you require reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process, please contact us at talent@newstory.com.