Job Title: Special Education Instructional Aide/Resource/Inclusion Support
Wage/Hour Status: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Principal and teacher(s)
Pay Grade: Clerical/Technical 1
Calendar: 187 days
Dept./School: Assigned Campus
Date Revised: 06/20/2023
PRIMARY PURPOSE
Help special and general education teachers provide for instructional needs of students with special needs in a general or special education setting. Assist in implementation of classroom programs including behavior management and instruction. Work under general supervision of principal and immediate direction of certified teacher.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Certification:
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid Texas educational aide certificate (prior to day one in the classroom)
- One of the following:
- Completion of two years of study at an institution of higher education (completion of 48 semester hours of college coursework)
- Associate’s degree or higher
- Meet rigorous standard of quality as demonstrated through an approved course of study for paraprofessionals (Master Teacher courses)
Special Knowledge/Skills:
- Ability to work with children with special needs
- Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
- Ability to communicate effectively
- Knowledge of general office equipment
- Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain professional relationships in dealing with students, faculty, and the public
Experience:
- Some experience working with children preferred
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Instructional Support
- Help prepare instructional materials including modifying/adapting classroom activities, assignments, and/or materials under the direction of the teacher for the purpose of supporting and reinforcing IEP objectives.
- Instruct students and groups of students and assist in the implementation of the Individual Education Plan, including the provision of accommodations under the teacher’s direction.
- Work with individual students or small groups to develop fine motor skills and conduct instructional exercises assigned by the teacher or recommended by related service providers.
- Help the teacher record and maintain academic, behavioral, and administrative data.
Student Support
- Assist students with physical needs, including transferring to and from wheelchairs or other adaptive equipment, lifting, or positioning.
- Help manage on-task or disruptive behavior of students through redirection, prompting, and implementation of accommodations.
- Learn and adapt to each student’s special medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs.
- Help support and monitor students throughout the school day, inside and outside the classroom. This may include at lunch, on field trips, on the bus, and on the playground or other outdoor areas.
Other
- Maintain confidentiality regarding student and coworker information and as required by FERPA.
- Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned.
- Follow established schedules, routines, and approved lesson plans.
- Demonstrate flexibility in assignment and schedule changes and continue to develop job-related skills.
- Assist in maintaining an organized, clean environment.
- Help with inventory, care, and maintenance of materials and equipment.
- Maintain regular and consistent attendance.
- Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None.
EQUIPMENT USED
Laptop or desktop computer, copier, tablet device, audiovisual equipment, and software necessary for administrative and educational tasks.
MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control in stressful environments.
Posture: Frequent standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, pushing, and pulling.
Environment: Possible exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases.
This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.