One to one paraprofessional

At West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science, our goal is clear; to create an environment where children advance in learning because they learn through discovery.

One to One Paraprofessional

2025-2026 School Year

About WMAES

Wonder what it would be like to go snowshoeing through a maple forest? Or what it may be like to grow your own food in a greenhouse? Students at West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science (WMAES) don't wonder what they know! Come be a part of our 62-acres of an outdoor classroom to expand your child's love of learning. Working gardens, nature trails, forests, wetlands and prairies are all available for students to explore. WMAES students transition from desks to dirt, creating an environment for all students to learn. WMAES knows that teachers are the heart of the school and are surrounded by a support system that is committed to the success of every child.

Qualities Of a Successful Candidate

• A comfortability in an outdoor setting and a knack for creativity and innovation, incorporating hands-on activities, experiential learning, and interactive teaching methods to make environmental/outdoor learning engaging and impactful.
• An unwavering belief that all children regardless of their background can learn and exceed at high levels.
• A strong desire to achieve outstanding results in the pursuit of excellence for students.
• Strong interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with children, parents and other staff members. They should be able to work collaboratively, promoting a harmonious learning environment.
  
  

As the One to One Paraprofessional , your core responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Supports student with a disability in a 1:1 capacity
• Completes daily documentation of student with Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
• Works with the Special Education team to support student
• Helps the classroom teacher organize and distribute lesson materials.
• Assists the classroom teacher in supporting instruction and engaging student in learning.
• Uses resources effectively to support learning activities in the classroom, the Academy, and the community under the direction of the classroom teacher.
• Demonstrates exceptional classroom techniques, which include the art of questioning, clarity of assignments, communicating an atmosphere of mutual respect, independent thought and expression, and student and classroom teacher experiences in large and small groups.
• Assists the classroom teacher with assessing learner needs, progress and achievement.
• Assists the classroom teacher in maintaining individual student records, when asked.
• Assumes other responsibilities assigned by the classroom teacher or school leader.
  
  

For the full job description, please email [email protected]

Essential Skills and Competencies: While we will consider a broad range of backgrounds, the ideal candidate would have the following qualifications/experience:

Minimum Requirements

• Complete at least two years of study at an institution of higher education (equal to 60 semester hours); or obtain an associate's degree (or higher); or meet a rigorous standard of quality and demonstrate, through a formal state or local academic assessment or successfully pass the ETS Parapro Assessment
  • Knowledge of and the ability to assist in, instructing reading, writing and mathematics; or
  • Knowledge of and the ability to assist in, instructing reading readiness, writing readiness and mathematics readiness, as appropriate.
• Ability to communicate with students, staff and guardians in a professional manner.
• Excellent verbal and written expression using proper grammar and vocabulary.
• Exemplary work habits verified by previous employers.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
  
  

Desired Requirements

• Knowledge of and skills working with at-risk students.
• Experience in an educational setting with school-age children.
  
  

Work Location: 4463 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. Choice Schools offers a full comprehensive benefits plan, including health care, a competitive 401(K) plan, professional development, and much more. View our benefits options here -

Please contact [email protected] with any questions.

Working for Choice Schools Associates

West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science is part of the Choice Schools Community. As a comprehensive education service provider, Choice Schools offers a student-centered approach to tailored school operations support. Much like a superintendent's office, Choice Schools provides invaluable assistance in various crucial areas, including instruction, professional development, curriculum, human resources, finance, compliance, communications, and enrollment. By being a part of the Choice Schools Environmental Model, West Michigan Academy is a vibrant community of learning, comprised of multiple other outstanding environmental schools within the state. The Environmental Model will provide you with the support and collaboration of a large district while serving at a tight-knit community school in your area.

Choice Schools Associates is an equal opportunity employer. Choice Schools Associates does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national or ethnic background. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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