POSITION: Instructional Assistant – Adaptive Special Education Curriculum

Location: Various Schools

Reports To: Special Education Teacher and/or Building Principal

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Length: 7.5 hours/day; 186 days

Salary Schedule/Grade: Classified Pay Scale, Grade 5

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:

Manassas Park City Schools is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Instructional Assistant – Adaptive Special Education Curriculum, to support the academic and social-emotional growth of students with special needs. Under the direction of a certified special education teacher, the instructional assistant will help implement instructional plans, monitor student progress, and foster an inclusive, supportive learning environment. This position plays a vital role in ensuring students receive the individualized support they need to thrive.

REQUISITE EDUCATION AND SKILLS:

High school diploma or equivalency required.
Previous experience working with groups of children desired.
Ability to work with various ability levels of student.
Ability to follow written and oral instructions and directions in carrying out tasks and procedures related to instructional and behavioral plans.
Ability to assist teachers with instructional activities and classroom management.
Must possess interpersonal communication skills and the professional and personal characteristics necessary for working with parents, students and school personnel.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES: (including but not limited to the following)

Complies with all school laws, State Board of Education regulations, and all policies and regulations made by the School Board and Superintendent.
Performs all duties deemed necessary by the School Board and Superintendent for the efficient and successful operation of the school system.
Confers with teachers on a regular basis to assist in evaluating special education student progress and/or implementing IEP objectives.
Implements academic instruction taught by a special education teacher for individuals or small groups. Implement behavioral plans designed by the IEP team for students with behavior challenges or other special conditions for assisting in meeting special education students' needs and providing a consistent environment.
Support students with daily personal care tasks such as toileting, feeding, and mobility assistance, ensuring their comfort and dignity are always maintained.
Instructs special education students (e.g. math groups, science experiments, reading, behavioral skills, daily living skills, writing, verbal skills, etc.). under the supervision of the special education teacher.
Maintains instructional materials and/or student files/records (e.g. adapting instructional materials, student files, checking papers, attendance, audiovisual equipment, setting up art/science projects, etc.).
Monitors special education students (e.g. lunch, playground, during life enrichment activities, etc.).
Performs record keeping (daily data on instruction and/or behavior) and clerical functions (e.g. correcting papers, copying, instructional materials, etc.) to support the special education teacher.
Carries out instructional plans as designated by the classroom teacher and the student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP).
Assists in the preparation of instructional materials.
Assists classroom teacher in maintaining an appropriate level of classroom behavior and control.
Help students individually and in small groups on assignments and activities.
Supervises students in the absence of the classroom teacher.
Performs clerical and instructional duties as assigned by the classroom teacher and/or building principal.
Assists teacher with maintenance of instructional materials, equipment and bulletin boards.
Attends in-service and workshop meetings as assigned by the building principal and Director of Special Programs.
Perform other related duties as may be assigned by the principal, to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Must have the ability to effectively communicate and interact with other staff and the public using the telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, hear, hear, hear, handle, or feel objects and controls. Physical capability to effectively use and operate various items of office related equipment such as, but not limited to, a personal computer, calculator, copier, and fax machine. Some climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and repetitive motions will be required.

CLEARANCES (Conditions for employment)

Successful completion of a Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance.
Negative Tuberculosis (TB) Screening.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Manassas Park City Schools assures Equal Employment Opportunities and equal education opportunities for employees and students as required by Federal and State Orders and Laws. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential tasks.

This job description reflects the major responsibilities and requirements of the role but is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties may be added, modified, or removed as necessary.

2025-2026: Instructional Assistant – Adaptive Special Education Curriculum