2026-2027: Instructional Assistant – Pre-K Adaptive Special Education Curriculum

Location: Cougar Elementary School

Reports To: Special Education Teacher and Building Principal

Employment Type: Full-Time, 7.5 hours/day; 186 days, Classified Pay Scale, Grade 5

About the Role

Manassas Park City Schools is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Instructional Assistant to support the academic and social-emotional growth of students with special needs in the Pre-K Adaptive Special Education Curriculum. 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.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalency required.
• Previous experience working with groups of children desired.
• Ability to work with various ability levels of students.
• 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.
• Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance and Tuberculosis Screening required.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Implements behavioral plans designed by the IEP team for students with behavior challenges or other special conditions to assist in meeting special education students' needs and providing a consistent environment.
• Supports 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.
• Helps 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.
• Performs other related duties as may be assigned by the principal to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Physical Requirements

This position operates in a professional school environment that includes classrooms, gymnasiums, cafeterias, auditoriums, and outdoor learning or recreational areas. The work environment involves noise levels that may range from low to moderate and requires frequent walking, standing, and movement throughout the school day. Occasional climbing, kneeling, or crouching may also be required. Periods of sitting are common while preparing lessons, grading assignments, or completing administrative tasks.

The position may require lifting or moving instructional materials, classroom supplies, or equipment weighing up to 10 pounds on a regular basis and occasionally up to 25 pounds or more. Regular use of computers, interactive whiteboards, projectors, printers, and other instructional technologies is required to support teaching and learning. Clear verbal communication, active listening, and visual attentiveness are essential for delivering instruction and ensuring student safety. The role involves daily interaction with students and regular collaboration with colleagues, administrators, and families. Occasional travel between school sites or participation in supervised field trips may also be required. School employees must be able to manage multiple responsibilities and adapt to the demands of a dynamic, fast-paced educational environment.