Marching Band VI Special Education Paraprofessional

Salary Per AFT Local 4706 CBA

Starting from $18.00 per hour

Part Time - Varying Hours

SUMMARY: Under the supervision of the assigned teacher/ancillary staff, the Special Education Paraprofessional provides direct support to a visually impaired student participating in the high school marching band program. This position ensures the student’s safe, meaningful, and successful participation in band camp, after-school rehearsals, performances, and school-sponsored events. The paraprofessional acts as a guide, facilitator, and support person while promoting independence and inclusion.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Student Support

• Provide one-on-one assistance to a visually impaired marching band student during:
• Band camp
• After-school practices
• Home football games
• Homecoming parade
• Fall Review Concert
• MSBOA Marching Band Festival
• Serve as a sighted guide, assisting with safe navigation on the field, in stands, parade routes, and other environments.
• Support student participation in marching drills, formations, and transitions as directed by the band director and special education staff.
• Reinforce instructional cues, directions, and timing provided by band staff.
• Assist the student in becoming familiar with field layout, performance spaces, and routes.

Safety and Supervision

• Maintain close supervision to ensure student safety during all rehearsals and events.
• Monitor for environmental hazards (uneven surfaces, obstacles, weather conditions, crowd movement).
• Assist with safe arrival, transitions, and dismissal during practices and performances.
• Follow emergency protocols and district procedures as needed.

Instructional Support

• Collaborate with the band director and special education team to implement appropriate accommodations.
• Reinforce orientation and mobility strategies as instructed by specialists (e.g., Teacher of the Visually Impaired or O&M Specialist).
• Provide verbal descriptions and spatial cues to support the student’s understanding of formations and positioning.
• Encourage independence while offering assistance only as needed.

Communication and Collaboration

• Maintain regular communication with:
• Band director
• Special education staff
• Building administration
• Provide feedback regarding student progress, participation, and needs.
• Follow student IEP accommodations and modifications as applicable.

Professional Responsibilities

• Maintain confidentiality of student information at all times.
• Attend any required training related to visual impairment, safety, or support strategies.
• Adhere to district policies and procedures.
• Demonstrate flexibility to accommodate extended hours during band camp and evening/weekend events.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent (Associate’s degree or higher preferred).
• Experience working with students with disabilities, preferably visual impairments.
• Ability to follow directions and work collaboratively with instructional staff.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain calm and effective support in fast-paced, outdoor environments.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Outdoor and indoor environments, including athletic fields, stadiums, and parade routes.
• Extended periods of standing, walking, and navigating uneven terrain.
• Work outside of regular school hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Exposure to varying weather conditions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to walk long distances and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to guide and support student mobility safely.
• Ability to respond quickly in dynamic environments.

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization