Special Education Sign Language Paraprofessional

Job DescriptionPosition Title: Special Education Sign Language ParaprofessionalLocation: DistrictDepartment: Special EducationReports To: Teacher of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (TDHH), Special Education Teacher, and Building AdministrationTerm: Ongoing 9-month position following school calendarSchedule: Mon-Fri Full-time. Approx. 6.5 hrs./daySalary: Position follows the Classified Salary Schedule 2026-2027 at B215. Starting salary begins at $20.55-$22.95/hour, based on experience.Date of last review: May 2026SUMMARY: The Sign Language Paraprofessional provides direct support to deaf or hard of hearing learners by ensuring access to communication and supporting academic progress. This role combines sign language facilitation with paraprofessional instructional support. The paraprofessional assists in implementing IEP goals, reinforcing instruction, and supporting communication access through American Sign Language (ASL) and/or other appropriate modalities based on learner needs.The position works under the supervision of licensed staff to promote learner independence, engagement, and success across academic, social, and functional settings.To Apply: Please complete the application and include your resume and three professional references.QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty and requirement satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required for the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: (Other duties may be assigned)CollaborationFacilitates understanding of classroom instruction by clarifying, reinforcing, and supporting communication between the learner, staff, and peers.Collaborates with TDHH, general education teachers, and special education staff to understand learner needs and instructional goals.Develops positive, effective working relationships with learners and staff.CommunicationProvides communication support using American Sign Language (ASL), manually coded English, and/or other appropriate systems based on learner needs.Assists in interpreting key instructional content, when appropriate, under guidance of the TDHH or classroom, or special education teacher.Maintains ongoing communication with staff regarding learner progress and concernsConnects and shares ideas through appropriate/applicable formats to express thoughts and ideas with integrity.CompassionUnderstands the complexities of cultural and global issues and how they relate to employee and learners' experiences.Partners with others to resolve potential controversy and conflict through respectful discussion.Proactively seeks to understand the ideas, opinions, and skills of others.CreativityConnects with team members and shares ideas in an effort to improve the overall learner and employee experience.Critical ThinkingCollects and reports data on learner performance and progress toward IEP goals.Previews lessons and vocabulary to support accurate communication and academic access.Reasons, interprets, and analyzes information to generate new knowledge and understanding.ReflectionMaintains communication with supervisor and director regarding general feedback, career advancement opportunities, and areas of growth opportunities.ResilienceMaintains composure while dealing with stressful situations.Proactively seeks out resolutions and takes initiative to resolve knowledge gaps.ResponsibilitySupports development of the learner's expressive and receptive language skills.Acts as a liaison to support participation in group work, discussions, and social interactions.Works with learners individually or in small groups to reinforce lessons and support skill development.Implements accommodations and modifications as outlined in the learner's IEP under teacher direction.Assists with preparation, organization, and adaptation of instructional materials.Supports learner engagement, task completion, and organizational skills.Participates in team meetings, trainings, and professional development as required.Supports implementation of behavior plans and classroom expectations.Assists learners with transitions, routines, and social-emotional development.Provides support with personal care needs if required.Responsible for setting and scheduling daily activities and projects.PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the essential duties and responsibilities of this role, the employee is regularly required to reach with hands and arms.While performing the essential duties and responsibilities of this role, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, bend, talk, and hear. The employee may frequently sit and rise from the floor.The specific vision abilities required for this role include close and peripheral vision.The employee may frequently lift up to ~25 pounds without assistance.The employee may occasionally lift up to ~50 pounds without assistance.The employee may have to push/pull up to ~120 pounds while performing the duties of the role.The employee may perform a two-person transport, restraint, or lift (with training provided).The employee may come in contact with bloodborne pathogens or other bodily fluids on rare occasions.The employee will work in an environment that has a quiet to loud noise level.The employee will be required to travel to different schools throughout the district. Education And/or ExperienceHigh School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED) equivalentExperience and fluency in American Sign Language (ASL).Must possess a valid driver's license and clean driving record.Must possess personal, reliable transportation.Associate's Degree or Paraprofessional Certificate is preferred.Experience working with learners with disabilities is preferred. Language SkillsAbility to effectively communicate using ASL.Ability to read, write, and comprehend simple instructions and short correspondences in the English language.Ability to communicate effectively verbally, expressively, and reactively.Other Skills And AbilitiesExercise confidentiality, discretion, and good judgement.Adhere to the assigned work schedule by maintaining regular and punctual attendance.Ability to utilize technology and assistive devices.Supervisory ResponsibilitiesNone.The West Fargo Public School District is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment free from discrimination and harassment in all employment and educational programs, activities, and facilities. The District prohibits discrimination and harassment based on an individual's race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, disability, age, or other protected status by law. External applicants are eligible for ND Veteran's Preference: North Dakota veterans claiming preference must submit all proof of eligibility by the closing date. Proof of eligibility includes a form DD214, and if claiming disabled veteran's status, a current letter of disability. West Fargo Public Schools is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusivity in all hiring and employment practices. Applicants who incorporate a holistic perspective and a commitment to inclusion are encouraged to apply.