Why are there new job descriptions?
In the last contract negotiations, the Federation and the District agreed to jointly develop a new job and salary structure for Special Education Assistants. The reasons for the change are: recognizing and differentiating between different paraeducator roles, providing a path for career growth, and assisting with recruitment, promotion and retention.
Who was involved?
The Joint Committee is composed of representatives from PFTCE, Human Resources, and Special Education. Committee membership changed over time – those who participated are listed below.
PFTCE: Becky Wright, Carolyn May, Kathy Hornstein, Val Jack, Brett Nair, and Pat Burns-Ratoza (now deceased).
Human Resources: Deborah Dineen and Michelle Riddell
Special Education: Maxine Kilcrease, Hugh Ellis, Louise Gillis, and Brad Fritts
Principal: Mary Patterson
Why does the job title change from Educational Assistant to Paraeducator?
The term paraeducator is widely used to reflect professionalism and expertise. Think of Paralegals and Paramedics – these are trained professionals who provide skilled support to attorneys, doctors, and nurses.
What are the general differences between the three levels of Paraeducator?
Paraeducator 3: Works with immediate supervision from licensed teachers or specialists; works in the classroom and other supervised learning environments to support the instructional program.
Paraeducator 2: Works with direction from licensed teachers or specialists; works in the classroom and other supervised learning environments to support the instructional program; may perform medical protocols.
Paraeducator 1: Uses independent judgment with guidance from licensed teachers or specialists; works in the classroom and other learning or home environments; may perform medical protocols.
When will this go into effect?
The new job and salary structure is effective on November 16, 2002.
How will I know whether I am a Paraeducator 3, 2 or 1?
Human Resources will notify you in writing by the end of November. You will receive a copy of your new job description and your salary assignment.
How are job placements being decided?
Special Education Director Maxine Kilcrease, Assistant Director Brad Fritts and (retired) Assistant Director Hugh Ellis worked with the Special Education Supervisors to determine the staffing structure based upon program needs.
What if I believe I am performing the duties of another job description?
It is important to remember that any employee may be required to perform some duties from another job classification. However, if the majority of time is spent performing duties outside of your assigned job classification, some change is likely needed. First, you should speak to your Special Education Supervisor about your concerns and review your assigned job description and duties together. Your Special Education Supervisor may change your duties and responsibilities to more closely align with your job description. (Remember, this is new for them too!)
If, after discussion with your Special Education Supervisor, your duties remain the same and you believe you are working at a higher level, you will have access to an appeal process. This appeal process will allow the Joint Committee to review your responsibilities in light of the three job descriptions. Three outcomes are possible from an appeal: no change in your job classification, your work is changed to match your classification, or your classification changes. More detailed information about the appeal process will be available after implementation of the new job and salary structure.
What if I am qualified to perform duties at a higher level of Paraeducator classification than the level to which I am assigned?
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What if I would like to move to a less stressful position with a lower level of responsibility?
The level to which you are assigned is established by the needs of the program as determined by the Special Education department. It is not a negative reflection of your individual qualifications or value to the program. If you are interested in moving forward in your career, we will develop a process for you to be considered for available positions at higher levels. In the meantime, you may advise your Special Education Supervisor that you are interested in transferring to open positions at other levels.
What is a medical protocol?
A medical protocol is an invasive medical intervention delegated by a nurse, after the paraeducator receives appropriate training. Examples of medical protocols are catheterization or tube feeding; diapering is not a medical protocol.
What if I have been performing a medical protocol; will I continue to receive extra pay?
If you are assigned medical protocols after November 16, you should be assigned as either a Paraeducator 2 or 1. The salary schedule for each incorporates the pay for medical protocols. The existing medical protocol extra pay will end as of November 15, 2002.
What happens to my job classification if classroom needs change?
It is a given that classroom or program needs may change over time, depending upon students’ needs. These situations will be handled on a case-by-case basis. It is possible that you could move to a different school or classroom. It is not our intent that your job classification will change often during the school year.
How does the Special Education Supervisor know what I do every day, or what I am capable of doing?
The Special Education Supervisor may not know what you do individually, but does know the needs of the classroom and the program. If you have been working in your classroom for a period of time, the Special Education Supervisor is aware that you are qualified to perform the functions needed. While your skills and expertise may qualify you for a higher level, your assigned classroom may not require those high level skills. Again, if you are interested in moving to a different level, you should let your Special Education Supervisor know of your desire to transfer.
What if I am assigned to two classrooms or two job classifications?
It would be unusual for you to be assigned at two different levels. However, split assignments do occur, and such assignments will be handled individually.
Are different job classifications required in high school programs than are required in middle or elementary schools?
No. The age of the students does not by itself change the requirements of the program or the level of paraeducator needed.
If I have more questions, who should I contact?
Generally, you should first discuss questions or concerns with your Special Education Supervisor. If you still have questions about the content of the job descriptions or the development process, you may contact any Joint Committee member. Questions about your individual circumstances should be directed to your Special Education Supervisor, PFTCE, or Human Resources.
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