Qualifications:

• Job Title: Preschool Assistant Paraprofessional
  Job Type: Classified / Non-Certificated
  Reports To: Preschool Lead Teacher and Building Principal
  FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
  Salary Range: Per Classified Salary Schedule, based on experience and negotiated agreement
  Work Calendar: Aligned with academic year (151 days), 7.5 hours/day

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  Position Summary:

  The Preschool Assistant Paraprofessional supports the early learning environment by assisting the classroom teacher in implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum, providing care and supervision for preschool-aged children (typically 3–5 years), and ensuring a safe and nurturing environment in accordance with Washington State Early Learning Guidelines, district policies, and federal requirements such as Head Start or ECEAP (if applicable).

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  Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Assist in the implementation of classroom activities, daily routines, and curriculum plans under the direction of the lead teacher.

  • Support children’s learning through guided play, individualized instruction, and small group facilitation.

  • Maintain a positive and inclusive classroom environment that supports the social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development of all children.

  • Supervise students in a variety of settings (classroom, playground, lunchroom, bus loading/unloading) to ensure safety and well-being.

  • Provide support with self-care routines including toileting, dressing, and feeding as needed.

  • Observe and document children’s progress and behaviors, contributing to assessments and reports as directed by the teacher.

  • Use appropriate positive behavior support techniques aligned with PBIS and district policies.

  • Collaborate with special education staff, therapists, and family support specialists as necessary to meet Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) goals.

  • Communicate effectively and professionally with staff, students, and families.

  • Participate in professional development, staff meetings, and trainings as required by the district or state regulations.

  • Follow all school district policies, procedures, and state licensing or OSPI requirements.

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  Qualifications:

  Required:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • Must meet Washington State paraeducator minimum employment requirements:

    • Associate’s degree or higher; OR

    • 72 quarter or 48 semester college credits; OR

    • Passing score on the ETS ParaPro Assessment.

  • Must complete the Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) and General Certificate training per Washington State paraeducator standards (district-provided if not yet completed).

  • Ability to pass a background check and fingerprint clearance through OSPI.

  Preferred:

  • Experience working in a preschool or early childhood setting.

  • Familiarity with early childhood education programs such as Head Start or ECEAP.

  • Knowledge of child development, trauma-informed practices, and inclusive education strategies.

  • Bilingual or multilingual skills are a plus.

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  Working Conditions:

  • Work is performed in a classroom and school environment.

  • May require lifting and assisting young children (up to 50 lbs), sitting on the floor, and frequent movement.

  • Exposure to childhood illnesses is possible.

  • Schedule aligns with the academic school year; some training may occur outside regular school hours.

Apply today at www.gcdsd.org. We look forward to welcoming a passionate educator to our early learning team!

The Grand Coulee Dam School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates participating in all aspects of the selection process.