26/27 Common Grounds Cafe Support, Special Education Instructional Paraprofessional, 0.9375 FTE

Durango School District 9-R is accepting applications for a Special Education Instructional Paraprofessional to support life skills learning and on the job training in the Common Grounds Cafe located at the Durango Public Library. This position is 7.5 hours per day and includes full benefits. This is an 11 month position. Begins September 28, 2026.

SUMMARY: This paraprofessional role requires an individual to possess barista skills and have the ability to teach these skills to students in a hands-on, supportive environment. This role involves coordinating with local businesses to ensure a consistent supply of quality products, delivering exceptional customer service, and mentoring students in both technical and interpersonal aspects of coffee shop operations. Students in this transitional services program have Individualized Education Plans and are enrolled in special education services with Durango School District. This position is an 11 month position and will start on July 21, 2025.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The frequency and percentage of time of duties may vary based on building or department assignment.

• Support instructional programs and provide applicable on the job training to students. Train and mentor students in technical work aspects and interpersonal skills that are needed in the work environment. Assist in facilitating the execution of Individualized Education Plans for students under the direction of licensed staff. Implement approved modifications and/or accommodations in accordance with the student's IEP. Supervise and facilitate students in the program.
• Enforces district policies regarding behaviors and discipline to help correct behavioral problems and assist in meeting student behavioral goals. Facilitate crisis intervention and assist students with problem solving techniques and conflict resolution. Assist students in performing daily routines with the Common Grounds Program as it relates to technical skills and interpersonal skills.
• Assist students in performing daily routines associated with their personal hygiene. Assist with student mobility as directed by the IEP and student need.
• Facilitate and encourage speech and language development. May use alternative language such as sign language or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device.
• Collaborate with Special Service Providers to implement and maintain appropriate physical accommodations and modifications that support the student's access to and participation in the Common Grounds Program.
• Collaborate and communicate with other special and regular educators and administrators with regard to academic and behavioral issues and observations. Provide suggestions, feedback and support to building staff, administrators, parents and outside agencies regarding effective strategies for facilitating learning.
• Assist the licensed staff by helping with data collection, updating records and documentation while helping maintain student files and class records. Maintain compliance with confidentiality laws including Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA.)
• Ensure proper cleaning and maintenance of the Common Grounds Cafe.
• Maintain inventory for the Common Grounds Cafe.
• Collaborate with the district finance department to manage Common Grounds based funds, including processing transactions, maintaining accurate financial records, reconciling accounts, and ensuring all financial statements comply with district policies and procedures.
• Attend and participate in district and building in-service opportunities and committee work.
• Engage in ongoing professional development. Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING: High school diploma or equivalent. Basic Skills Competence (Minimum 2 years of college, e.g. associates degree, or 48 semester hrs of college coursework) OR Pass paraprofessional test (CDE and NCLB qualifications) prior to being hired.

EXPERIENCE: Experience is preferred but may not be necessary for hiring.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, & REGISTRATIONS: CPR and First Aid training preferred at hire; required one month after hire. Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training required within three months of hire. Colorado driver's license and school district small vehicle operator permit may be required

TECHNICAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, & ABILITIES:

• Communicate effectively in written and oral form using positive interpersonal skills
• Consultation skills
• Ability to assist in developing and support the behavior intervention plans, classroom management systems, and reinforcement systems
• Ability to use effective interventions for at risk learners
• Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis
• Knowledge of developmental, emotional, and behavioral disabilities
• Experience in data collection and data analysis
• Ability to develop and provide training related to accessing community resources and behavioral intervention practices in all school settings.
• Non-violent and physical intervention techniques
• Ability to use proper English grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure
• Knowledge of first aide skills

MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT OPERATING KNOWLEDGE:

• Operating knowledge of and experience with personal computers.
• Operating knowledge of and experience with typical office equipment, such as copier, fax machine, E-mail, etc.

Durango School District is an equal opportunity educational institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability or need for special education services in admissions, access to treatment, or employment in educational programs or activities which it operates, or any other applicable status protected by federal, state or local law. For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, contact Laura Galido, Compliance Officer, Durango School District, 281 Sawyer Drive, Suite 100, Durango, CO 81303, (970) 247-5411, lgalido@durangoschools.org, or the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, 1244 Spear Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, (303) 844-5695