Direct Support Professional II - Paraeducator

Overview Direct Support Professional II - Paraeducator Pay: $21.00/hour Paraeducator — Do Work That Truly Matters If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real, human impact every single day, becoming a Paraeducator at Crotched Mountain School could be your place to shine. You will support students (up to age 22) with significant neurodevelopmental and intellectual disabilities as they build communication, independence, and confidence. Some students are non-speaking. Many rely on caring, consistent adults to help them navigate their world—and that’s where you come in. About Crotched Mountain School… Nestled in the beautiful Monadnock region of New Hampshire, Crotched Mountain School offers a therapeutic and adventure-based environment for learners. Our expansive campus features hiking trails, lakes, an Olympic-sized pool, a media center, a bowling alley, and a panoramic library — all designed to help students grow socially, academically, and emotionally. Over the past three years, Seven Hills has been revitalizing this historic program: expanding services, welcoming new students, and building a passionate team of clinicians, educators, and caregivers who make extraordinary things possible for youth with neurodevelopmental disabilities. What to Expect as a Paraeducator at CMS (The Real, Important Part)… This role is equal parts heartwarming, fast-paced, and “did that really just happen?” We believe in being upfront—this job will challenge you, grow you, and create memories that will last a lifetime. A lively environment: Classrooms can be busy and sometimes loud—think less “library vibes” and more “organized chaos with a purpose.” We don’t do “dull moments” here at CMS! Supporting complex behaviors: Some students communicate through behaviors, including verbal or physical aggression, or attempts to leave the area. You’ll be trained to respond safely and effectively, with consistent team support and clear plans in place. A wide range of students: You’ll work with everyone from fast-moving elementary students to teens and young adults. The role can be physically demanding, so staying engaged, aware, and ready to move is essential. Hands-on care (ADLs): You’ll assist with personal care and daily living needs—meaningful, essential work that requires compassion, respect, and adaptability. Hours... Monday through Friday; 8:00am-3:00pm This is a year round position in a 44-week per year program, working during school hours only. You will not work during school vacations, holidays, snow days, etc. Benefits... $2,000 sign-on bonus Health, dental, and vision insurance with Blue Cross Blue Shield 403(b) retirement plan with company match of 25-33% based on years of service Accrued paid sick and personal days Paid orientation and training Student loan assistance & paid education (tuition, certifications, licensure, etc.) PSLF-eligible nonprofit employer EAP, FSA/HSA, life insurance, parental leave, home mortgage program, professional development assistance, referral program, legal insurance, pet insurance, and more. Responsibilities Student Support & Daily Care Support students in academic, vocational, and life skills programming Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including hygiene, dressing, and meals Build respectful, supportive relationships with students Participate in field trips, vocational activities, and school events Educational & Behavioral Support Implement Individual Education Programs (IEPs), behavior plans, and treatment plans Help students stay engaged with learning and classroom activities Use positive behavior support and de-escalation techniques Safely manage behavioral incidents, including trained physical interventions when necessary Anticipate and prevent potential challenges before they escalate Health & Safety Support students’ medical needs, including recognizing health concerns Administer medications (as trained) under supervision Respond to emergencies, including seizure protocols and injuries Follow all safety, reporting, and documentation procedures Teamwork & Communication Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of educators, clinicians, and medical staff Attend meetings, trainings, and workshops Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members Report any concerns related to student safety, including suspected abuse or neglect Documentation & Organization Complete accurate and timely documentation (IEP data, behavior tracking, medical logs, etc.) Maintain organized records and follow all reporting requirements Use electronic systems (e.g., Matrix) to document care and services Core Skills Empathy, patience, and compassion Strong communication and teamwork abilities Reliability and attention to detail Ability to support both academic and behavioral needs Comfort working in a dynamic, hands-on environment Qualifications Associate’s Degree required OR High School Diploma/GED with passing ParaPro (Praxis) scores At least 1 year of related experience Valid driver’s license (Class C or D)