JOB DESCRIPTION

INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT - SPECIAL EDUCATION

QUALIFICATIONS:

Federal legislation known as “No Child Left Behind” was signed into law by President Bush in January 2002. It requires that beginning January 8, 2002, paraprofessionals be required to have one of the following:

An associate of arts degree
Two years of college (48 credit hours)
Pass the ParaPro exam (state assessment test for knowledge of an ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing and math)

Reports to: Principal and under supervision of the classroom teacher

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Ability to communicate effectively with students.
Ability to proficiently aid teacher in the performance of duties.
Ability to communicate effectively, work well with staff and is a team player.
Aid teacher in preparing classroom.
Instruct students under teacher supervision.
Follow lesson plans with fidelity.
Supervise and support students during assigned duties both inside and outside of the classroom (i.e., cafeteria, playground, bus loading and unloading, field trips, restroom, off-site jobs, etc.
Adhere to student IEP and 504 plans with fidelity.
Aid in preparing students for arrival and dismissal.
Maintain effective communication with Teacher of Record.
Assist with the data collection for student academic and/or behavior goals.
Any other related duties as may be assigned by the building principal and/or Teacher of Record.
Empower students to achieve their maximum level of academic/behavioral independence based upon Teacher of Record directive.
During a crisis situation, demonstrate the ability to professionally and effectively engage with and/or de-escalate students in their care.
Follow assigned daily schedule in a timely fashion.

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Nurture a positive relationship with super-ordinates, subordinates and peers.
Demonstrate respect for super-ordinates, subordinates, peers, and students.
Support corporation decisions and direction relative to matters of policy and administrative directives.
Demonstrate ability to deal with sensitive issues in a tactful and professional manner.
Address concerns and offer suggestions in an appropriate and confidential manner.
Demonstrate punctuality/promptness (e.g., arrive on time, do not leave early, perform duties in a timely manner, etc.)
Dress in a professional manner in accordance with position.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES COULD INCLUDE:

Assist students with self-care skills (toileting, food prep, feeding, personal hygiene, etc.)
Lift and transfer students.
Use Crisis Prevention & Intervention training in accordance with CPI/Mandt Training procedures.
Other duties as assigned by principal or designee.

Program Instructional Assistant