Garfield County School District No. 16
JOB DESCRIPTION
Position Title: Preschool Paraprofessional and Grades K - 12 Bus Monitor
Position Type: Classified
Reports to: Building Principal
Supervises: Students in classroom and during transportation
Location: Grand Valley Center for Family Learning
FLSA Classification: Non-exempt
Work Year: 10-month, 40 hours/week
Pay Range Min and Max: $18.87 - $33.02 per hour
Job ID#: 1390
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Preschool Paraprofessional/Bus Monitor provides direct support to preschool teachers and students in creating a safe and engaging learning environment. This position helps implement preschool curriculum, supports classroom activities, and supervises students. The paraprofessional assists in monitoring student progress, providing reinforcement in academic and behavioral skills. Additionally, as a Grades K-12 Bus Monitor, they provide direct supervision and support in maintaining safety and order during transit to and from school.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:
Classroom Support:
Help preschool teachers create a warm and accepting community of learners, nurturing each child in the context of their family.
Actively supervise children in the classroom, during indoor and outdoor play, nap times, and classroom transitions, ensuring safety and cleanliness (including disinfecting supplies).
Follow preschool teachers lesson plans and help organize and implement activities following preschool curriculum
Utilize Teaching Strategies GOLD (TS GOLD) to assess children's development and learning in language, literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional skills.
Assist the teacher in tracking student’s progress
Maintain a pleasant demeanor, positive attitude, and a team-oriented approach with a spirit of flexibility in meeting the needs of the preschool program.
Support children in toileting needs (including diapering) and assist with behavior management.
Assist with setting up centers, checking children in, and preparing breakfast and snacks, followed by cleanup.
Help children learn to clean up after themselves in the learning centers.
Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when interacting with parents and other staff members.
Attend weekly team and staff meetings, contributing to discussions and team planning.
Participate in professional development to obtain and maintain a level 2 credential in Colorado Shines PDIS.
Ensure compliance with CDE licensing and ECERS regulations for classroom management and safety.
Assist with other duties as assigned by the supervising teacher or building principal, including support with field trips and parent communication.
Bus Monitoring:
Ensure the safety of students during boarding and disembarking from the bus, including assisting with seat assignments and securing seat belts or child restraint systems when appropriate.
Monitor students for safety and enforce bus rules (e.g., no standing, no loud noises).
Address disruptive behavior immediately, including inappropriate language, and ensure a safe and respectful bus environment.
Document and report any behavioral incidents or concerns during bus rides and note students requiring extra attention or accommodations to the Transportation Office.
Assist students with special needs, ensuring they are safely seated and comfortable.
Ensure students disembark safely, assist with exits, and monitor the area for hazards.
Conduct final checks to confirm no students are left behind.
Help manage emergency situations, including assisting with bus evacuations when necessary.
Foster positive, respectful relationships with students, using their names and offering support as needed.
Assist students with mobility needs, including operating the wheelchair lift if applicable.
Maintain communication with the bus driver and school staff to ensure smooth operations.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
Knowledge of early childhood development and best practices in preschool education.
Ability to supervise and monitor students in both classroom and transportation settings.
Strong communication skills, both written and oral, to effectively engage with students, staff, and parents.
Ability to take initiative, work independently, and demonstrate flexibility in meeting the needs of students and the program.
Basic organizational skills and attention to detail in maintaining classroom materials and safety procedures.
Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and assist children with mobility and personal care needs.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Associate degree or higher OR two years of verifiable college course work (48 semester hours) OR the ability to successfully pass the WorkKeys proficiency test
CPR and First Aid certifications are required.
Ability to obtain a Level 2 Colorado Shines PDIS credential.
Valid Colorado Driver's License.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Previous experience in a preschool or early childhood education setting.
Multilingual skills are a plus.
Experience working with children with diverse learning needs.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:
10-month, full-time position with employee benefits package per district policy.
Clear criminal background check.
Verification of health to perform job duties.
REPORTS TO:
The Center for Family Learning Principal
SUPERVISES:
Students in the school and transportation settings
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Physical ability to perform essential job functions, including standing, walking, sitting, and occasional lifting.
Supervision of students in various settings, including classrooms, buses, and outdoor play areas.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not exhaustive and may change as needed. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change by the district.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:
In compliance with Titles VI & VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008, and Colorado law, Garfield County School District No.16 does not unlawfully discriminate against otherwise qualified students, employees, applicants for employment, or members of the public on the basis of disability, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, religion, ancestry, family composition, or need for special education services. Discrimination against employees and applicants for employment based on age, genetic information, and conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth is also prohibited in accordance with state and/or federal law. Harassment, if it rises to the level described in state law, is a prohibited form of discrimination.