Education Assistant for Special Education Center-Based WAVE at Zachary Lane Elementary
Program Overview
This federal setting III program provides a structured educational environment for students who benefit from a predictable and individualized setting. The Working Academically in a Visual Environment (WAVE) program serves students who thrive in smaller settings with a high staff‑to‑student ratio. WAVE offers a predictable yet flexible learning environment designed to support students as they develop as whole individuals. While many WAVE students have needs related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), they may also have additional disabilities such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Obsessive‑Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities (LD), other neurological disorders, or mental health diagnoses (e.g., anxiety or depression).
Responsibilities
- Assist in providing supervision and instruction to students with disabilities.
- Provide clerical and organizational support to special education teachers as needed.
- Work with individuals and/or small groups when activities and assignments are presented by mainstream teachers and/or special education teachers.
- Provide support for students in crisis.
- Willingness to lift, carry, and physically manage students as necessary.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the teacher or principal.
Qualifications
- At least two years of college credits (typically 60 credits in MN), an associate’s or higher degree, or a passing score on the ParaPro or Paraeducator Assessment.
- Experience working with students who have cognitive disabilities, physical disabilities, and behavior problems (preferred).
- Proficiency with word processing, filing, and basic computer use.
- Patient, calm, and understanding manner when working with students.
- Sensitivity to confidentiality.
- Reliable attendance and punctuality.
- Ability to assist students with classroom assignments.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks.
Pay
$24.03 per hour based on the current contract, plus benefits.
Schedule
Seven hours per day, which includes 6.5 hours of paid work time and a 30‑minute unpaid lunch break.