1:1 Paraprofessional (Dedicated Aide) SY 2025-2026

Shining Stars Montessori Academy Public Charter School’s mission is to offer a quality Montessori education infused with culturally inclusive principles to guide children to develop to their fullest potential. http://www.shiningstarspcs.org

Position Summary:

Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS  (SSMA) seeks experienced individuals as   to support our students from PreK3 - through the 6th grade  to better access the curriculum .The person in this position is responsible for assisting with meeting  the educational goals of students as outlined in their  Individual Education  Plan (IEP) and/or 504 Plan

The Dedicated Aide/Education Assistant will support the Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS mission by assisting the Director of Special Programs , Learning Specialists and Guide  with ensuring inclusion and educational consistency for  identified child(ren) throughout the school day.  

Essential Functions & Accountabilities:

Provides individual academic and behavioral support for a child/children with Individualized Educational Plans (IEP), 504 Plans  using intensive, research-based strategies under the direct supervision of the Director of Special Programs and Lead Guide/Teacher.

• Provides 1:1/individualized behavioral supports to improve children's achievement of individual academic and behavioral goals in support of the child’s IEP and/or 504  goals;

• Keeps other members of the Montessori classroom teaching team informed of progress and challenges regarding the student;

• Assist the student to participate in lessons, assignments, projects and assessments;


• Assist the child with personal hygiene, meals , transitions through the building, during assemblies, field trips, and other daily indoor and outdoor activities, as required; 

• Actively participates in professional development opportunities provided and seeks out additional professional development;


• Assist with the implementation of the students Behavior Intervention Plan, if applicable;


• Maintain record and documentation related to the student as instructed/


• Utilize the school’s Restorative Justice Practice  model,

• Maintains confidentiality and treats all information about children and their families in the strictest of confidence. 


• Assist with supporting the Academic Team with presenting a robust synchronous distant learning program 

Key Competencies:

• Familiarity with the standards of professionalism including appropriate dress, attendance and timeliness


• Strong communication skills in order to ensure effective, positive interactions with their teaching team, other staff, parents and children.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of an Associate Degree required; Bachelor’s degree preferred 


• Prior experience working with children ages 3-13 years of age  with exceptional needs in a public, public charter school  setting 


• Competent in the use  use of technology (computers, tablets, projectors, photocopiers, etc.)


• Experience or familiarity with data driven instruction and use of a data system to record student activity


• Experience or familiarity with the Montessori


•  Grace & Courtesy model as a collaborative member of a high performing public charter school learning community of Montessori teachers, students, staff and parents.(preferred but not required)


• Prior or demonstrated experience working with children with exceptional needs ages 3-12 preferred.


• CPI training and certification preferred


• A sense of humor and love of children is essential.

Shining Stars Montessori Academy Public Charter School does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing a welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.