Position Type: Steps Middle & High School/ParaeducatorDate Posted: 9/12/2026Location: Torrington, CT EdAdvance is one of Connecticut's six Regional Educational Service Centers (RESCs). EdAdvance is also a partner in the RESC Alliance and works collaboratively with the other RESC groups to support state-wide initiatives.
Mission
EdAdvance, exists to promote the success of school districts and their communities.
EdAdvance is redefining what a Regional Education Service Center can be using a systemic approach � grounded in the "3C's", Connection Culture, and Customization. Focused on local and regional priorities, we are reinvesting the expertise, energy, and resources of the agency to amplify the benefit of our constituents.
A continuing commitment to quality and excellence is our standard of performance. EdAdvance has over 600 employees with facility locations in Litchfield, Danbury, Plymouth, and Torrington.
What we offer employees:
- A highly collaborative work environment
- A high employee retention rate and recognition for years of service (at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 years)
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental Insurance (30+ hours/week)
- Flexible Work Schedules
- Generous paid time off policies
- Health & wellness programs
- Reimbursement for Professional Development
- Staff learning days
- Agency-wide annual celebrations
Position Overview:
This dynamic role is primarily dedicated to direct classroom learning and student success, with flexible secondary support for school office operations. The primary focus is providing hands-on instructional and behavioral assistance to students. Additionally, this position serves as the main backup for the school secretary during scheduled non-instructional times or office coverage needs. Note: Student and classroom support always take immediate priority over routine administrative tasks.
Major Responsibilities & Requirements:
Classroom & Student Support (Primary Focus)
- Assist in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs) under the guidance of certified special education teachers and a BCBA.
- Support students in developing independent learning skills and self-management strategies.
- Assist in maintaining a positive, inclusive classroom environment conducive to learning.
- Monitor student behavior and provide structured feedback to teachers regarding student progress and needs.
- Collaborate effectively with teachers, therapists, and support staff to advance overall student development.
Administrative & Office Support (Secondary / As-Needed)
- Under the supervision of the Principal, provide secondary technical, clerical, and organizational support for STEPS MS/HS during non-instructional windows or coverage periods.
- Assure routine clerical tasks (mail, emailing, filing, copying, data entry) are performed accurately, efficiently, and in a timely fashion.
- Work effectively in a team format to assure all essential office functions are completed smoothly during main secretary absences or high-volume periods.
- Demonstrate the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously while maintaining a calm, positive demeanor.
- Maintain effective working relationships with all agency personnel.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Competency with Google Suite (Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gemini, etc.).
- Familiarity with PowerSchool or similar student information systems.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build effective relationships with students and staff.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and adapt seamlessly to changing daily priorities.
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Must have taken and passed the ParaPro test, OR completed 2 years of full-time post-secondary education (minimum 60 credits), OR hold an Associate's Degree or higher.
- Preference given to candidates pursuing or interested in becoming a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT); all individuals passionate about working with students with emotional and behavioral challenges are encouraged to apply.
- Consistent, reliable attendance is an essential function of this position.
- Previous experience in a school setting working with children or individuals with disabilities is preferred.
- Ability to withstand the physical demands of frequent standing, bending, kneeling, and emergency physical management as required.
Benefits:
- Comprehensive training provided for all clerical and administrative assistant tasks as needed.
- Competitive health benefits package.
- Paid personal and sick time.
- Ongoing RBT supervision hours provided by a BCBA.
- Professional training and certification in physical management intervention.
Application Procedure:
Applications should be submitted for consideration by visiting EdAdvance's employment page at, http://edadvance.org/about-us/employment, and click on the button next to the job posting of interest.
EdAdvance does not discriminate in any of its programs, activities or employment practices on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran, marital or familial status, pregnancy, genetic information, or status as a domestic violence victim, (along with any other classification protected by law). EdAdvance further provides equal access to the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and all other designated youth groups. To file a complaint of discrimination, write Director, Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Washington, DC 20250-9410, or the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, 450 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford, CT 06103. Any person having inquiries concerning EdAdvance's compliance with its nondiscrimination policies and procedures, including compliance with Section 504, Title VI or Title IX, should contact: HR@edadvance.org
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state law, we provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Applicants requiring an accommodation to complete the application or interview process should contact Human Resources.