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Special Education Paraprofessional Jobs in Decatur, GA

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Special Education Paraprofessional information

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How much do special education paraprofessional jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for special education paraprofessional in Decatur, GA is $17.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special education paraprofessional?

As a special education paraprofessional, you serve as a teacher assistant and work with students who have special needs. Your primary responsibilities are making learning opportunities accessible to all students and helping the teacher with classroom management. Your job duties are to supervise students with special needs, provide those students with extra assistance and support during lessons, and assist teachers with instruction and administrative tasks like grading, recording documentation about student behavior and progress both socially and educationally, and participating in meetings.

How do special education paraprofessionals typically collaborate with teachers and therapists during the school day?

Special Education Paraprofessionals work closely with general and special education teachers, as well as therapists such as speech or occupational therapists, to support students' individualized education plans (IEPs). Collaboration often includes attending planning meetings, sharing observations about student progress, and implementing strategies recommended by specialists. Paraprofessionals may assist with classroom activities, help adapt materials, and provide one-on-one or small group support, ensuring that students receive consistent guidance throughout the day. Open communication and teamwork are essential for addressing students' academic and behavioral needs effectively.

What is the difference between Special Education Paraprofessional vs Teacher Assistant?

AspectSpecial Education ParaprofessionalTeacher Assistant
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often similar requirements
Work EnvironmentAssist in special education classrooms, supporting students with disabilitiesAssist in general or special education classrooms, supporting teachers and students
Employer & IndustrySchools, special education programsSchools, educational settings

Special Education Paraprofessionals primarily support students with disabilities in special education classrooms, often requiring specific certifications or training. Teacher Assistants work in both general and special education settings, providing classroom support. While their roles overlap, Special Education Paraprofessionals focus more on assisting students with special needs, whereas Teacher Assistants may have broader responsibilities across various classroom activities.

Do you need a degree to be a special education paraprofessional?

In most cases, a high school diploma or equivalent is sufficient to become a special education paraprofessional, though some districts may prefer or require additional certifications or training. A paraprofessional typically works under the supervision of a licensed teacher and may need to pass a competency exam or complete specific training programs. Requirements can vary by state or school district, so it's important to check local regulations.

What do special education paraprofessionals do?

Special education paraprofessionals assist teachers in supporting students with disabilities by providing instructional support, behavioral management, and personal care as needed. They often work one-on-one or in small groups, help implement individualized education plans (IEPs), and may use tools like visual aids or communication devices to support student learning. Paraprofessionals typically work under the supervision of licensed teachers and may require relevant training or certification.

What job categories do people searching Special Education Paraprofessional jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Special Education Paraprofessional jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Special Education Paraprofessional jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Special Education Paraprofessional job openings:

Infographic showing various Special Education Paraprofessional job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,293 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Special Education Paraprofessional- Categorical

Atlanta, GA • On-site


Fulton County Schools
Education Programs Administration • 10K+ employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

219th of 638 rated elementary and secondary schools

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Summary
Paraprofessionals may serve in a classroom or media center. Incumbents in the Paraprofessional position are responsible for providing assistance to students and staff as indicated in the duties below related the individual's assignment.
Essential Duties
  • Assists the teacher in the preparation of educational materials for students.
  • Works individually with students and/or in small groups to help reinforce learning objectives.
  • Assists with all aspects of the daily routine, including distributing and collecting supplies, keeping attendance records, and grading quizzes as assigned.
  • Participates in lunchroom, recess, hall-monitoring, and bus duties.
  • Assists with preparing and maintaining bulletin boards and other learning centers areas for instruction.
  • Participates in required additional training related to the Dual Immersion Model if applicable
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the appropriate administrator.

Required Education
High School Diploma or GED required
Must pass the GACE para assessment; in lieu of the GACE Assessment and have 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours of a grade of C or better; hold an Associate's Degree or higher at a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution is acceptable
Certification/Licensure
Must be able to obtain Georgia PSC Paraprofessional Certificate
Experience Qualifications
  • 0 - 1 year experience required

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
  • Classroom experience and/or proven ability to work with children preferred
  • Must be able to follow written and oral instructions quickly and accurately
  • Must be able to handle sensitive and confidential information
  • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) with students and adults
  • Excellent organizational skills and flexibility
  • If working as a Paraprofessional in the Dual Immersion program, should exhibit proficiency in spoken and written language of instruction

Working Conditions
  • Classroom environment

Physical Demands
  • Ability to lift and carry 30-50 pounds with assistance
  • Ability to push or pull a maximum of 50 pounds
  • May require lifting, bending kneeling, reaching, stooping or crouching
  • Requires ability to move and control an adult-sized wheelchair
  • Typically sitting, standing, walking

Posting ID: 34002
It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice, educational program, or any other program, activity, or service. If you wish to make a complaint or request accommodation or modification due to discrimination in any program, activity, or service, contact Compliance Coordinator Gonzalo LaCava, 6201 Powers Ferry Rd, NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30339, or phone 470-254-4585.TTY 1-800-255-0135.
Special Education Paraprofessional- Categorical
Req ID: Fulton County Schools


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