September 27, 2025
Discover the essential requirements, duties, responsibilities, and skills needed for a Substitute Paraprofessional job description.
What does a Substitute Paraprofessional do?
A substitute paraprofessional is someone who helps licensed teachers with their work in the classroom. They help keep track of students' attendance, assist with lesson planning, and provide support to teachers. They work temporarily, filling in for other paraprofessionals who are absent.
Job Description
We are looking for a friendly and helpful substitute paraprofessional to provide temporary assistance in the classroom. Your job will be to help students with their work, support the teacher, and prepare materials for lessons. You may also need to help younger students or those with special needs.
To be successful as a substitute paraprofessional, you should have some knowledge of teaching and experience in a similar job. A great substitute paraprofessional is someone who is patient and focuses on the needs of each student, so that they can all learn and do well.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Helping students with their work, either one-on-one or in small groups.
- Teaching or co-teaching parts of lessons under the supervision of the teacher.
- Guiding students through classroom activities and assignments, both on their own and in groups.
- Watching how students are doing and providing help when needed.
- Talking with students about what they are learning to help them understand better.
- Noticing if students are having a hard time and finding ways to help them.
- Helping the teacher manage the classroom and keep students safe from any bad behavior.
- Preparing materials and equipment for lessons.
- Looking at students' work and giving them grades.
- Assisting younger students and those with special needs with things like going to the bathroom, eating, and getting around.
Requirements and Qualifications
- A high school diploma or GED.
- Some college coursework related to this job is good to have, but not required.
- Experience working as a substitute paraprofessional in a similar job is helpful.
- Very good at speaking and writing in English.
- Knowledge of how to plan lessons, manage a classroom, and teach students.
- Experience using technology and classroom equipment.
- Excellent people skills and communication skills.
- Good at organizing and managing your time.
- Works well with others and can be a good team member.
- Able to motivate students and help them do their best.
Alternative Careers and Similar Jobs to a Substitute Paraprofessional
Trending Substitute Paraprofessional Job Openings - Join Best Companies