Early Intervention Special Education Aide - Part Time

Location: Blair County

About the Organization

The Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 is one of 29 intermediate units providing services for member school districts, including student services, training and technical assistance, online learning, and customized programs. IU8 serves approximately 47,000 students across four counties (Blair, Somerset, Bedford, and Cambria) within 35 school districts and five Career Technical Centers. The service area spans 3,500 square miles with office locations in Altoona, Duncansville, Ebensburg, Richland, and Somerset.

About the Role

This part-time, non-exempt position works under the direct supervision of a certified teaching professional to support the instructional program and assist students with disabilities in benefiting from special education services as outlined in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). The role follows federal, state, and IU policies, as well as directives from teaching professionals.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain positive relationships in educational environments.
• Follow daily classroom and individual learner schedules as directed by the teacher.
• Initiate and manage daily activities and assigned tasks independently.
• Assist with clerical and classroom duties as assigned.
• Provide instructional activities to individuals or groups after initial training by certified professionals.
• Collect and record data under the guidance of teaching professionals.
• Use developmentally and age-appropriate strategies, materials, and technologies as directed.
• Prepare, adapt, and organize materials to support teaching and learning.
• Maintain a safe, healthy learning environment and implement behavior plans.
• Provide guidance, help, and positive reinforcement during instructional and non-instructional activities.
• Deliver accommodations as directed by teaching professionals and outlined in the IEP.
• Support learners during transitions, arrival, and dismissal, including assistance with transportation.
• Assist with activities of daily living and self-care (e.g., walking, eating, toileting, hygiene) as directed by the IEP.
• Follow procedures for safe physical assistance, including lifting, transitioning, and evacuating learners.
• Support learners in inclusive settings to promote independence and access aligned with IEP needs.
• Participate in conferences with families or caregivers as part of the educational team.
• Demonstrate sensitivity to cultural diversity among students and families.
• Use effective problem-solving, flexible thinking, and conflict management skills.
• Communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Use technology to support student learning and work requirements.
• Engage in professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills.
• Accept and apply constructive feedback.
• Adhere to IU standards, procedures, and policies.
• Complete Personal Care Assistant Logs as required by Medical ACCESS.
• Complete 20 hours of role-related training annually.
• Maintain regular and timely attendance.
• Use a personal vehicle for reliable transportation to all work locations.
• Perform other duties as assigned in accordance with IU8 policies and regulations.

Requirements

• Associate’s Degree or higher; OR completed two years of postsecondary study (minimum 48 credit hours); OR High School Diploma or equivalent with completion of the Credential of Competency for Special Education Paraeducators through the PA Department of Education.
• Current and acceptable clearances: Act 34 (PA State Police), Act 151 (PA Child Abuse History), Act 114 (PDE Fingerprinting), PDE6004 (Arrest & Conviction), and Act 168 (PA Sexual Misconduct background).
• Certificate of medical examination and tuberculosis test upon hire, as required by state regulations.
• Ability to lift and assist learners (ages 3–21) up to 40 pounds, including assistive appliances like wheelchairs.
• Ability to remain stationary for extended periods and move across various work environments.
• Ability to push, pull, and lift up to 40 pounds.
• Proficiency in operating computers and technology for work requirements.
• Effective communication skills for exchanging information with others.
• Completion of physical trainings, including CPR, First Aid, and Safe Crisis Management with De-escalation.
• Personal vehicle for reliable transportation to all work locations.

Desired Qualifications

• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to follow directions and exercise good judgment.
• Basic technology skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The role operates in typical school and classroom settings, including outdoor and community-based activities. Some travel on school transportation (e.g., buses, vans) may be required. Physical demands include:

• Strength and ability to lift and assist learners (ages 3–21) up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to remain stationary for extended periods.
• Mobility across various work environments.
• Positioning to manage and retrieve materials and supplies.
• Pushing, pulling, and lifting up to 40 pounds.
• Regular computer operation.

Benefits

• Pennsylvania Public Schools Employee’s Retirement System (PSERS).