SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION:
The prekindergarten program provides comprehensive services focused on early learning, health and family well-being through individualized learning experiences, play, and planned instruction, covering areas like social skills, emotional well-being, language, literacy, math, and science. At the direction of the principal, this paraeducator performs a variety of tasks that promote school readiness and well-being for students who are ages three to five. This position also performs a variety of instructional and classroom management supports, as well as related clerical tasks to support teachers and other professional staff in all types of classrooms or learning environments. All new paraeducators are hired at a grade 15 and have the opportunity to promote to a grade 16 after successfully completing the six-month probationary period and successfully completing the required number of training hours.PHYSICAL DEMANDS: (Special requirements such as lifting heavy objects and frequent climbing.) Frequent bending, walking, and lifting of objects/equipment up to 50 pounds may be required. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: (Frequent overtime or night work required, etc.) Outside duty may be required. Must be able to accommodate flexible scheduling and change of location and/or program, as needed. Continues planned instructional activities during teacher's temporary absence from the classroom.

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION:
The prekindergarten program provides comprehensive services focused on early learning, health and family well-being through individualized learning experiences, play, and planned instruction, covering areas like social skills, emotional well-being, language, literacy, math, and science. At the direction of the principal, this paraeducator performs a variety of tasks that promote school readiness and well-being for students who are ages three to five. This position also performs a variety of instructional and classroom management supports, as well as related clerical tasks to support teachers and other professional staff in all types of classrooms or learning environments. All new paraeducators are hired at a grade 15 and have the opportunity to promote to a grade 16 after successfully completing the six-month probationary period and successfully completing the required number of training hours.PHYSICAL DEMANDS: (Special requirements such as lifting heavy objects and frequent climbing.) Frequent bending, walking, and lifting of objects/equipment up to 50 pounds may be required. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: (Frequent overtime or night work required, etc.) Outside duty may be required. Must be able to accommodate flexible scheduling and change of location and/or program, as needed. Continues planned instructional activities during teacher's temporary absence from the classroom.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of child development, instructional strategies and practices applicable to assignment, and instructional goals and policies of Montgomery County Public Schools. Ability to assist with implementation of the instructional program and to participate in monitoring and ensuring appropriate student behavior. Ability to exhibit patient behavior and to work effectively with children, young adults, and staff members. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and to perform all required tasks. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Ability to read/write/speak English. Ability to interact with and support students with special needs. Knowledge of standard computer hardware and software such as Google Workspace, MS Office and web-based instructional tools. Knowledge of or the ability to quickly learn and meet the seven core competencies of the Supporting Services Professional Growth System (SSPGS).

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:
These requirements are in order of preference.1. Associate?s degree, required. Bachelor?s degree preferred. College course work should include a minimum of nine credit-hours related to education field such as behavior management, instructional strategies. One year of experience working with students in structured educational (or academic) situations preferred. If no related education course work, then two to four years of experience working with children and adolescents in a structured setting such as a daycare, pre-school, etc. required.OR2. At least 48 college credits and two years of experience in a structured setting such as a daycare, pre-school, adult day program, after-school program, extended day, or school/non-school based departments, etc.OR3. Two years of experience in a structured setting such as a daycare, pre-school, adult day program, after-school program, extended day, or school/non-school based departments, etc. Successful completion of the ParaPro Assessment with a qualifying score of 455 or higher is required.OR4. Any combinations of applicable education, training, and experience which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: None.