The Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) is currently hiring for a Project Paraprofessional (Instruction & Classroom Support Technician I) for the 2024/2025 school year. This position is slated to begin in August of 2024 (with limited in-service training days in July). Project positions have the potential for conversion to permanent positions in the future as most of our para's start as project employees! Both project and permanent positions include a comprehensive benefits package and are PEBB and PERS eligible.
Student-Centered Equity Accessibility Relationships Continuous Improvement
About WSSB...
The core purpose of the Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) is to empower blind and low vision individuals to reach their full potential. We believe in a future where every blind and low vision student in Washington has the supports and services they need to succeed. Our programs and services are provided across a diverse continuum of service options; including a range of short and long-term programs that include residential options at our Vancouver campus, outreach services in local schools and communities, access to specialized technology and resources through our Ogden Resource Center, as well as training options for parents, educators, and related service providers through a combination of department efforts. Our greatest resource at WSSB are our incredible staff. Our valued employees are continuously encouraged to improve the ways that we provide service to our students and the community. WSSB’s core values are: being student-centered, equity, accessibility, relationships, and continuous improvement.
The successful candidates will have the ability to:
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Work with blind and low vision children;
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Independently perform duties with frequent interruptions;
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Assist children with mobility activities;
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Assist children with toileting and other personal needs;
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Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing;
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Apply problem solving skills to issues as they arise;
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Maintain a positive attitude and be receptive to change in processes and procedures;
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Assist supervisor/instructor in classroom work, field trips, and lecture periods;
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Assist in the classroom with self-help needs;
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Prepare materials for use in classrooms, laboratories or instructional shops; set up assignments, equipment or demonstration apparatus for classes; confer with instructor in establishing and developing assignments;
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Ability and willingness to obtain Braille certification;
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Lift up to 45 lbs.;
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Stand and walk for long periods of time; and,
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Pass Federal and State background checks.
Qualifications include:
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High school diploma or its recognized equivalent, and
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ParaEducators must fulfill one of the three following requirements:
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Complete at least 72 quarter or 48 semester credits (100 level or higher) at an institution of higher education that meets the Higher Education Act (documented through transcripts); or
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Obtain an Associate's (or higher) degree from an institution of higher education that meets the Higher Education Act (documented through transcripts); or
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Score 461 or higher on a recognized formal state or local academic assessment (ParaPro Assessment) which demonstrates (documented by official test results issued by ETS):
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Knowledge of, and the ability to assist in instructing, reading, writing and mathematics;
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Knowledge of and the ability to assist in instructing, reading readiness, writing readiness, and mathematics readiness as appropriate
Desired Qualifications include:
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Two or more years working experience in educational setting;
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Current Braille certification; or ability to obtain within one year
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Experience with Daily Living Skills instruction for the blind and low vision; and,
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Training and/or experience working with children with behavioral support needs.
Note: The full salary range has been posted for informational purposes only. New hires do not typically start at the top of the range without State of Washington experience in a similarly situated position as these are considered longevity steps.
This position may be eligible for Assignment Pay, a premium of 5% which is added to an employee's base salary for recognized specialized skills (i.e. braille certification) that exceed the ordinary requirements for the position. This recruitment may also be used to fill multiple positions and shifts including both project and permanent paraprofessional openings.
How to apply:
To begin the online application process, click the 'Apply' button at the top of this announcement. To be considered for this position you must include the following information in your online application and complete any supplemental questionnaire(s).
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A completed online application profile that includes education and employment history (applications that state "see my resume" or similar language on the application will be considered incomplete); and,
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Allow contact for three professional references included in your application, including at least one supervisor, with up-to-date contact information.
For questions or information regarding the online application, please email kristina.bader@wssb.wa.gov.
What WSSB Offers!
WSSB offers employees a student-focused and mission-driven environment that empowers blind and low vision individuals to reach their full potential. Our beautiful 13.2 acre campus is on the National Register of Historic Places and not only includes state-of-the-art classrooms but a fitness center with saline pool, track & field, auditorium, braille center, low vision clinic, LIFTT program offering dorm-style housing and much more!
Union Inclusion:
This position is included in a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE).
Opportunity for All:
The Washington State School for the Blind celebrates our differences and we are committed to a workplace that supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital status, families with children (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity diversity, age, status as a protected veteran, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as an individual with the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with disabilities or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We will also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws. A background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competency to perform in the position.
You are welcome to include the name and pronoun you would like to be referred to in your materials and we will honor this as you interact with our organization.
Veterans Preference:
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, or other verification of military service. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as social security number. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here. We thank you and are grateful for your service!
Additional Information:
The state of Washington is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with a disability who need assistance with their application, or that need this announcement in an alternative format, may call (360) 947-3311. Should you have any questions regarding this position, or the online application, please email Kristina.Bader@wssb.wa.gov. TTY users should first call 711 to access the Washington Relay Service.