Autism Paraprofessional ~ Extensive Support Needs
The Creekside School is a specialized, nonpublic school serving students on the autism spectrum with extensive behavioral, communication, and support needs. Our team is dedicated to creating a structured, compassionate, and highly individualized learning environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
We are seeking dedicated, patient, and resilient Autism Paraprofessionals to join our educational team. This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about supporting students with autism and developmental disabilities while working alongside experienced educators, behavior specialists, and related service providers.
What You’ll DoAs an Autism Paraprofessional, you will provide direct support to students throughout the school day while helping implement educational and behavioral programming designed to promote independence and success.
Responsibilities include:Supporting students in classroom, community-based, and campus activitiesAssisting with the implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs)Utilizing evidence-based behavioral and instructional strategiesCollecting behavioral and academic data as directedSupporting communication, social-emotional growth, and independent living skillsAssisting students with daily routines and personal care needs when necessaryMaintaining a safe, structured, and supportive learning environmentCollaborating closely with Teachers, Behavior Specialists, BCBAs, Speech Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and other multidisciplinary team membersParticipating in ongoing training and professional development
QualificationsHigh School Diploma or equivalent requiredAssociate degree or Bachelor’s degree preferredExperience working with individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, or behavioral support needs preferredExperience in educational, behavioral health, or human services settings is highly desirableAbility to remain calm, patient, and professional in a fast-paced environmentStrong communication and teamwork skillsAbility to meet physical demands of the position, including standing, walking, lifting, and supporting students throughout the dayWhy Join Creekside?Meaningful work that directly impacts students and familiesSupportive and collaborative team environmentOngoing training and professional developmentOpportunities for advancement into Behavior Specialist, RBT, and other specialized rolesComprehensive benefits package for eligible employeesSchool calendar schedule with holidays and breaks Read LessInstructors (Direct Support Professionals)
Duty Statement: Participates in implementing needs and services plans for participants by providing care and supervision of on and off-site activities according to individual needs, choices, and SARC's Individual Program Plan (IPP).
Instructors report to the Lead Staff, or, in their absence to the Program Director.
Duties Include:
Establishes and maintains a supportive relationship with participants
Fosters maximum self-determination on the part of participants
Provides continuous supervision for participants to ensure safety and wellbeing
Implements a continuum of positive programming activities that are culturally relevant and designed to support participants in maximizing their ability to enjoy life, have fun, and thrive
Implements agreed upon positive behavior strategies to minimize the risk factors related to behavioral, or mental health challenges
Assists participants in developing a schedule which includes preferred activities and is in cooperation with the participant's Individual Program Plan (IPP) and Individual Service Plan
Assists participants in accessing generic community-based services to enhance their ability to participate in social/recreational activities in inclusive environments as prescribed by the participant's IPP and Individual Service Plan (ISP)
Uses alternative communication strategies including picture icons, computer programs, and other functional and adaptive approaches
Responds effectively to crisis situations at the site and in the community
Supports Program Consultants in performing effectively
Communicates effectively and proactively with the Lead Staff and in their absence the Program Director with regard to all participant issues including situations when a participant becomes a danger to self or others, there is a sudden illness, or their behavior support plan cannot be implemented as agreed upon
Responds to questions and issues raised in a professional manner and updates participant staff, parents, and others as needed and within program confidentiality guidelines
Respects the privacy of participants and maintains confidentiality of information obtained in the course of professional services as per HIPAA guidelines
Documents participant instructional and support services using data collection and participant forms, prepares daily/monthly progress reports documenting participants' progress toward ISP goals and objectives
Attends meetings as assigned by the Lead Staff or their designee, including participant related meetings, monthly in-service meetings, and continuing education opportunities
Participates in the annual program evaluation
Prepares special incident and adult dependent abuse reports as necessary and required by Title 17 and Title 22 regulations
Performs first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and other emergency services (e.g., evacuation during a fire) as appropriate to the needs of participants
Lifts and transfers participants as necessary; assists participants with transfers in and out of wheelchairs and safely transfers participants in case of an emergency
When food is served follows sanitation and health guidelines
Assists participants in the management of their funds as per (LIC405 Safeguarded cash resources/record of client's cash). Staff will allow participants to be as independent as possible in the handling of their cash resources
Assists participants in scheduled activities in accordance with the participant 's needs and services plan
Assist participants in learning emergency procedures for earthquakes, fires, and other natural disasters
Responsible for responding to emergency situations while on duty
Conducts themselves in a professional manner while on premises
Professionally represent the company at all times
Work with and have knowledge of all Community Care Licensing Title 22 and Regional Center Title 17 requirements and regulations and Home and Community Based Final Rules
Recognize the early signs of illness and need for professional assistance
Assist in the self-administration of medications (after being trained) of prescription medications to ensure participants are taking the proper medication, at the proper dosage, at the proper time, and documenting it on the proper form
The ability to work as a team member and to represent the company in a professional manner
Good oral and written communication skills
Performs other duties as assigned
Instructor Position Specifications:
High School Diploma
Six months experience providing direct support services to intellectually disabled adults
