At a Glance
- Tasks: Support students with special needs in a dynamic learning environment.
- Company: Join the inclusive team at Bryn Mawr Elementary.
- Benefits: Enjoy health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Education credits or ParaPro Assessment required; experience with children preferred.
- Other info: Diverse workplace committed to inclusion and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 22 - 25 £ per hour.
Below is specific information for you to consider about this position.
Requisition ID number: 104088
Close Date: No established closing date; open until filled
Organizational Unit: Bryn Mawr Elementary (10000013)
FTE: 78.75 FTE @ 41 weeks; this is based on full-time equivalency with 1.0 being full time
Union: ESP(28)
Salary Range: 26.37-29.85
Benefits: Dental insurance | Health insurance | Vision insurance | Paid time off | HSA & FSA | Retirement plan
Resume and Cover Letter are mandatory to apply for any position.
1 Position Available
DISABILITY FOCUS: Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)
SUMMARY
Under general supervision, provides a variety of services to assist students with special needs in a learning environment; assists MPS staff to develop and implement appropriate individualization lessons and activities for students with disabilities; promotes student independence, academic and social inclusion, as well as self-advocacy skills; helps students to meet their therapy and education goals.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Provides support services to children with moderate to severe disabilities enrolled in MPS; performs duties within scope of authority and training, and in compliance with MPS policies, quality standards, and the Standards of Effective Instructional Support for Educational Assistants; duties may vary according to job assignment.
- Assists MPS staff to facilitate educational functions and other services to maintain a safe, inclusive, and productive learning environment in the Least Restrictive Environment possible, that is also sensitive to the individual needs and legal rights of Special Education students; works with students to improve personal skills and reinforce classroom learning.
- Assists students in learning processes; applies Prevent, Teach, Reinforce Behavior Intervention Plans, reinforces positive behavior, provides individual instruction, encourages opportunities for peer socialization.
- Monitors student activities, promotes respect, explains social norms and disciplinary consequences, de-escalates personal confrontations, and enforces District policies and rules of conduct.
- Monitors assigned students and records data for academic and behavioral assessments; maintains files, and keeps records of student progress and activities.
- Maintains behavior documentation, written observations and anecdotal information files for Support and Advocacy for Independent Living Program (SAIL), Individualized Education Program (IEP), and Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA).
- Monitors work, corrects papers and transitions students for medications, meals, buses and classes.
- Attends to and provides for students’ daily hygiene, personal and health related cares, as directed by licensed staff.
- Promotes student independence in community, recreational, school and leisure activities, and vocational training.
- Reports learning problems, behavioral issues, and other concerns to supervisor or Principal.
- Prepares the classroom environment and material to be used by students; provides assistance with students in classrooms, special projects, and after-school programs.
- Provides customer service to parents and guardians, answers questions, and explains school rules.
- Demonstrates courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with students, clients, visitors, and MPS staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.
- Enthusiastically promotes the Superintendent’s goals and priorities in compliance with all policies and procedures.
- Maintains absolute confidentiality of work-related issues, records and MPS information.
- Other duties or tasks may be assigned on an as-needed basis.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education, Training and Experience Guidelines Completion of 90 quarter or 60 semester college credits in Education, Child Development, Behavioral Sciences or educational area related to position assignment; OR A passing score of 460 (or higher) on the ParaPro Assessment AND a high school diploma/GED certificate; AND two (2) years of paid experience working with children; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.
Knowledge of:
- Classroom policies, procedures and processes.
- Methods and techniques to assist students in reading, writing and mathematics.
- Methods and techniques for working with students with disabilities and special needs.
- Local community resources and regional community services programs.
- Basic principles of record keeping and records management.
- Personal computers utilizing standard and specialized software.
- Safety rules and regulations.
Skill in:
- Monitoring and improving student behavior and learning skills.
- Assisting children and special needs students, and assessing educational needs.
- Maintaining composure, and working effectively under classroom conditions.
- Reacting quickly to situations that could create personal stress and safety problems.
- Communicating effectively with children.
- Collaborating as a team member, with colleagues, staff and community representatives.
- Following verbal and written instructions.
- Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with co-workers.
- Effective verbal and written communication.
LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
A valid Minnesota State Driver’s License may be required. First Aid/CPR/AED, Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training, and Special Education Orientation is required within one year.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
Work is performed in a classroom environment, with moderate physical requirements; requires occasionally lifting such articles as file boxes or heavier materials with help from others and/or lifting and carrying light objects frequently. A job in this category may require walking or standing to a significant degree, and working with special needs children. Must be able to frequently lift up to 50 pounds. Eligibility for position is based on passing the required pre-placement exam. Final candidates may be invited to interview with a committee. Final appointment to this position will be contingent upon passing a criminal background check.
COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY
Minneapolis Public Schools core values include diversity and it is essential to our goal of putting children first and making them college-ready. Diversity of our workforce provides us with a competitive advantage and allows us to better understand, communicate with and educate our diverse student body. Minneapolis Public Schools will not deny anyone the opportunity for training or employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender or gender identity, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, sexual orientation, age, family care leave status, or veteran status. Minneapolis Public Schools strongly encourages diverse candidates to apply.
Special Education Assistan (Program) ECSE - (2025-2026) Bryn Mawr employer: Minneapolis Public Schools
Contact Detail:
Minneapolis Public Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Special Education Assistan (Program) ECSE - (2025-2026) Bryn Mawr
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education field, especially those who work with special needs. They might know about openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to special education. Think about how you would handle specific scenarios with students and be ready to share your experiences.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for helping students with disabilities! During interviews, share stories that highlight your commitment to promoting independence and inclusion in the classroom.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Special Education Assistan (Program) ECSE - (2025-2026) Bryn Mawr
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: When applying for the Special Education Assistant role, make sure your cover letter speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience with children and any relevant qualifications that align with the responsibilities outlined.
Showcase Your Experience: In your resume, emphasise your past work with children, especially those with special needs. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've supported their learning and development, as this will resonate well with us.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application materials clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Minneapolis Public Schools
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Special Education Assistant, especially in Early Childhood Special Education. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like Individualised Education Programs (IEPs) and behaviour intervention plans. This will show that you're not just interested in the job, but that you’re prepared to make a real impact.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous experience working with children, particularly those with special needs. Think of specific examples where you’ve helped students overcome challenges or achieve their goals. This will help the interviewers see how your background aligns with their needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Soft Skills
In this role, communication and teamwork are key. Be prepared to talk about how you handle difficult situations, work collaboratively with teachers, and support students emotionally. Share stories that highlight your patience, empathy, and ability to de-escalate conflicts.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the school’s approach to inclusion, how they support their staff, or what a typical day looks like for a Special Education Assistant. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you determine if it’s the right fit for you.