The Mancos school district plans to increase pay and update training for special education and para-educator positions in an effort to help students and “lessen the burden on all staff,” Superintendent Todd Cordrey said Monday.
The district also is partnering with San Juan BOCES at the elementary level to support a para-educator to become a registered behavioral technician. To become a RBT, the para-educator will participate in a two-year training program through BOCES’ Board Certified Behavior Analyst that will include supporting the para through supervision and coaching.
The district said this training will help build the capacity and skills that will target student behaviors that are occurring in the elementary school.
After completing their training, the RBT will remain in Mancos to “empower collaboration with ESS and general education teams to meet students’ and staffs’ needs,” Cordrey said.
Now, the district will increase para-educator and special education teacher compensation. They hope the increase will help fill an open position for special education and other open positions in ESS before the start of the upcoming school year.
Special education teachers will see a salary increase of $7,500 per year, and ESS para-educators will be paid $2 more per hour.
“We hope this action will encourage current staff with the ESS endorsement to consider ESS teaching positions and inspire others to seek out the ESS endorsement. We currently have a special-education teaching position open,” Cordrey said.
Cordrey went on to say this update will continue supporting students and staff, creating a positive start to the upcoming school year.
“Mancos School District is steadfast in its commitment to upholding the highest standard of student services and educational outcomes,” Cordrey said. “These adjustments will significantly support students and staff for a smooth and productive school year. Mancos is a great place to live and learn because we are dedicated to continuous improvement.”
