General Education Paraeducator (Early Childhood)

TITLE: Early Childhood Paraeducator – STEM Magnet Elementary School

REPORTS TO: Principal or Designee
 
POSITION OVERVIEW:
To support the classroom teacher in providing a nurturing, inquiry-based learning environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration, and foundational STEM skills in early learners.
   
TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Under the direction and supervision of a certified classroom teacher:

• Assist with implementing developmentally appropriate, hands-on STEM learning activities that foster exploration, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
• Help organize, distribute, and clean up instructional materials, manipulatives, and technology used in classroom projects and investigations.
• Support students in small groups or one-on-one to reinforce academic skills, particularly in early math, science inquiry, and foundational technology use.
• Promote student engagement, curiosity, and teamwork through guided discovery and collaborative learning.
• Assist in maintaining a safe, inclusive, and organized classroom learning environment that supports active learning and experimentation.
• Support classroom routines, student transitions, and positive behavior practices throughout the day.
• Participate in professional development opportunities related to STEM education and early childhood learning.
• Encourage and model a growth mindset and inquiry-based approach to learning in all classroom interactions.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the classroom teacher, principal, or designee.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate’s degree, minimum of 60 college credits, or successful completion of the ParaPro Assessment (or equivalent).
• Experience or interest in working with early childhood or elementary-age children.
• Ability to communicate effectively and respectfully with students, staff, and families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
• Interest in or familiarity with STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) concepts and hands-on learning.
• Additional qualifications as deemed appropriate by the Board of Education.

 
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Work year to be established by the Board.
 
New London Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
Candidates from diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.