Para-Educator (Program Counselor)
AchieveKids is a dynamic, non-profit educational organization with a rich 60+ year history of providing non-public schooling in San Jose and Palo Alto, California. We serve students with complex learning and emotional challenges. Our students possess a range of abilities, and we focus on skill development to help our students transition to progressively more independent learning environments. We strive to create joy in learning and to enhance success beyond our doors. AchieveKids is an exciting place to work, and we have a lot to offer the right candidate.
AchieveKids is committed to supporting high quality, inclusive practices in our schools and programs. The diversity of our workforce and Board of Directors is essential and we are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our company to ensure a wide range of experiences, perspectives, and skills to drive innovation and creativity, enhance decision-making, and provide better solutions.
DESCRIPTION
This is a regular, full-time, non-exempt position that reports to the Special Education Teacher.
As a Para-Educator (Program Counselor), you are committed to upholding AchieveKids’ values and beliefs to help students achieve the maximum possible self-reliance and quality of life. You are a positive and high-energy problem solver, who possesses effective organizational skills and demonstrates dedication, high integrity, and strong reflective skills.
In order to support our students in achieving their goals and transitioning to a less restrictive environment, you are willing to learn and work collaboratively on multi-disciplinary teams. You aim to provide individualized care to promote educational, socio-emotional, and behavioral skill development plans.
You have the exciting opportunity, through our career pathways program, to gain experience and education to become either a Credentialed Teacher or a Behavior Analyst.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Work with students to support educational and treatment programs, such as developing academic, communication, behavioral, vocational, and independent living skills.
- Prepare program materials (both educational and social/emotional), and record data
- Implement students’ IEP goals and objectives in all relevant training environments, including school, community, and vocational settings
- Be a problem solver and active team member in collaborative meetings
- Maintain a willingness to learn, reflect, and give/get feedback in a dynamic environment
- Be present, both in daily attending and engaging with students and co-workers
- Drive students to school or home, as needed
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree preferred, but not required
- Effective oral and written communication skills
- Ability to think and act autonomously in a variety of situations
- Ability to physically respond to physically active and aggressive children, adolescents, and young adults. Ability to successfully utilize Safety-Care techniques when required.
- Clean California DMV record required
BENEFITS
- 7 weeks paid time off
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance plan options
- Retirement plan with company match
- Tuition and professional development assistance
- Health care, dependent care, and transportation flexible spending accounts
- Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time
- A positive, strength-based learning environment!