We are seeking a compassionate, dedicated, and adaptable Long-Term Substitute ABA Paraprofessional to join our team and provide direct support to students with autism and other developmental disabilities during a temporary assignment. The Long-Term Substitute ABA Paraprofessional will work under the guidance of a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Special Education Teacher, and supervisory staff to implement individualized behavior plans, deliver behavioral interventions, and promote positive social, academic, and emotional growth.

This role requires a reliable professional who can seamlessly step into an active classroom, maintain consistency in routine, and foster a positive, structured learning environment for students in both classroom and community settings.

This job description outlines the core duties and responsibilities for the position. It is not meant to be an exhaustive list of all tasks that may be required in this role. The ideal candidate should be flexible and adaptable in meeting the evolving needs of the District.

Key Responsibilities:

Implement Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies and interventions to support students with autism and other developmental disabilities according to established plans.
Assist in carrying out Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) developed by the BCBA or Special Education Teacher.
Consistently collect and record accurate daily data on student progress, behavior target tracking, and responses to interventions.
Provide one-on-one and small group support during instructional time, transitions, specials, lunch/recess, and non-classroom activities.
Reinforce positive behaviors and assist in managing challenging behaviors using ABA principles and district-approved de-escalation techniques.
Support students with social communication, academic engagement, self-regulation, and daily living skills development.
Work collaboratively with classroom teachers, BCBAs, related service providers, and substitute staff to ensure continuity and fidelity in behavioral interventions.
Assist with overall classroom management to maintain a predictable, safe, and positive learning environment.
Maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards regarding student records and behavioral data.
Perform other related duties as assigned by supervisory staff to meet the immediate needs of students during the substitute coverage period.

Qualifications:

High School Diploma required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
Experience working with students with special needs in an educational setting is highly desirable.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, teachers, and families.
Ability to work collaboratively within a diverse school community and adapt to various instructional needs.
Patience, empathy, and a commitment to supporting student success in an inclusive learning environment.
Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and special education best practices is a plus.

Additional Requirements:

Background check and fingerprinting as required by Massachusetts state regulations.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Must be able to lift, move, or assist students when necessary.
Completion of any required professional development or certifications as mandated by the district.
Completion of any required training or certifications upon hire, including CPR, First Aid, or behavior management training.
Ability to lift, move, or assist students when necessary.

Massachusetts DESES Regulations for This Position:

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has established specific guidelines for the employment of Long-Term Substitute Teachers. Key criteria include:

Educational Requirements:
- A minimum of a bachelor's degree is required to serve as a Long-Term Substitute Teacher.
Licensure Requirements:
- For assignments exceeding 90 consecutive days, the substitute must hold the appropriate Massachusetts teaching license for the subject area they are teaching.
Duration of Assignment:
- Under emergency regulations, individuals with a bachelor's degree can serve as Long-Term Substitutes for up to the entire school year, an increase from the previous limit of 90 days. However, this extension does not apply to roles requiring Special Education or English as a Second Language (ESL) licenses.
Hardship Waivers:
- In situations where a licensed educator is unavailable, districts may apply for a hardship waiver to employ an unlicensed individual as a Long-Term Substitute. The District must demonstrate that a suitable licensed candidate is not available for the position.

Important Note:

Applicants who are hired for this position and are found to have provided falsified or inaccurate information during the application process are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

Compensation and Benefits:

Temporary Full-Time Position in accordance with the established Substitute Teacher Scale. This position is not eligible for any Benefits.

Abby Kelley Foster Public Charter School is an affirmative action employer, ensuring that its programs and facilities are accessible to the public. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, race, gender, religion, disability, gender identity, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related medical conditions, national origin, homelessness, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other status or class protected by state or federal law.

Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School Mission

The mission of the Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School is to assist families in their role as primary educators of their students by providing a liberal arts education representative of diverse works and global perspectives and aimed at academic excellence, musical competence, and character formation.

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