Personal Care Assistant

Schedule

• Elementary: 8:45 AM to 3:45 PM
• Secondary (Middle/High School): 7:45 AM to 2:45 PM
• 30-minute unpaid lunch break

Position Summary

The Paraprofessional provides academic, behavioral, and personal support to students with special needs under the direction of a teacher or case manager. This role assists in implementing educational programs and helping students achieve academic, social, and developmental goals in a safe and supportive learning environment.
Key Responsibilities

• Provide instructional support to students individually and in small groups as directed by the teacher.
• Assist students in developing cognitive, academic, gross motor, fine motor, self-help, and social skills.
• Support students with behavior management and positive behavior intervention strategies.
• Assist with personal care needs, including feeding, toileting, hygiene, changing clothing, positioning, and mobility as needed.
• Monitor student health, safety, and well-being throughout the school day.
• Assist students with orthopedic devices, braces, and other adaptive equipment.
• Help prepare students for participation in general education or mainstream classroom settings.
• Support physical development activities under the guidance of teachers and specialists.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to student progress and classroom activities.
• Collaborate with teachers, case managers, therapists, and other educational professionals to support student success.
• Encourage positive social interactions and promote student independence.
• Attend required trainings, in-services, and professional development sessions.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience

• Previous experience working with children, students with special needs, or in an educational setting preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

• Basic understanding of First Aid and CPR procedures.
• Knowledge of basic recordkeeping practices.
• Strong communication skills, including correct English usage, grammar, spelling, and vocabulary.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff and independently when needed.
• Ability to lift, position, and assist students safely.

Required Clearances & Documentation

Candidates must provide current copies of the following:

• PA Child Abuse Clearance (Act 151) - issued within the last year
• PA Criminal Background Check (Act 34) - issued within the last year
• FBI Fingerprint Clearance through the PA Department of Education - issued within the last year
• Current TB Screening (within the last 3 months)
• Arrest/Conviction Report and Certification Form - within the last year
• High School Diploma, GED, or Official Transcripts
• Mandated Reporter Training Certificate (Act 126) - valid within 5 years

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Medical, dental, and vision insurance are available to qualified candidates who meet eligibility requirements.