East Grand Rapids — East Grand Rapids Public Schools is looking to build up its roster of paraprofessionals, and district representatives hope an upcoming event will generate interest in its open positions.
A paraeducator hiring event will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, at Wealthy Elementary, 1961 Lake Drive SE.
“Paraeducators are almost like an extension of our teachers in the classroom,” said Caroline Cannon, EGR’s director of student services. “They, under the direction of our teachers, provide academic supports, academic interventions, behavior supports, behavior interventions, and they really work closely with the student and the teacher.”
No on-the-spot hiring will be done, but Director of Teaching and Learning Jason Hoogenstyn said candidates who might be a good fit will be asked back for a longer interview. Cannon and Hoogenstyn will be on hand to answer questions and to pose some of their own.
“It’s a great entry point into the district,” said Hoogenstyn. “It’s a great way to have people come and learn about our district in a way that is more face-to-face, so they can gain information quickly about what we’re offering.”
There are several spots to fill, including positions for special-education paraeducators, a student supervision coordinator and lunch-hour paraeducators. Cannon said the candidates who fill these positions might end up working in any of the district’s buildings.
So what are the job requirements?
“The number one qualification is that you love working with students,” Cannon said, adding that she and Hoogenstyn are excited to talk to candidates about what the district has to offer.
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