Educational Assistant -Lifeskills- Kathryn Jones Elementary

About the role

This position assists licensed staff in implementing an individualized education program (IEP) for students with moderate to severe learning and/or physical disabilities. The primary duties include providing individualized and small group instruction, assisting with student data collection, and managing classroom/program operations.

Responsibilities

• Implement developmental, academic, and life skills instructional programs for students with moderate to severe learning and physical disabilities.
• Work with small groups or in one-to-one settings to provide instruction.
• Exercise independent judgment to assist in the management of classroom/program operations.
• Adjust lesson plans or teaching strategies during instructional activities as necessary to achieve IEP goals and objectives.
• Manage behavior issues and provide education on appropriate interpersonal actions.
• Supervise students in and outside the classroom, including on the playground and in the community.
• Provide instruction in basic skills, behavior, communication, self-help skills, motor skills, and academic skills, as determined in the individualized education plan.
• Assist students with daily living tasks, such as feeding, toileting, therapy, and transportation.
• Support students with challenging behaviors using intervention strategies within the scope of the IEP goals and objectives.
• Train volunteers, professionals, and peer tutors to work with students in a manner that supports the district's educational plan.
• Participate in in-service and workshop training related to the area of assignment.
• Implement nursing protocols, including providing care for students with specific needs.

Requirements

A minimum of an associate's degree, two years of post-secondary study (72 quarter or 48 semester credits), or a passing score on a district-approved assessment is required. Prior experience working with special needs children is desirable.

Qualifications

• An associate's (or higher) degree, two years of post-secondary study (72 quarter or 48 semester credits), or a passing score on a district-approved assessment.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, including communications to parents under the direction of the general education and special education teacher/service provider.
• Interest in learning to effectively use other communication systems.
• Ability to formulate ideas for program improvement.
• Ability to collect, record, store, retrieve, assimilate, organize, and utilize information and records efficiently.
• Ability to understand and implement the school/program's student discipline policy and manage student behavior effectively.
• Ability to work with challenging behaviors and creatively problem-solve difficult situations while using intervention strategies.
• Ability to understand and implement the school/program's instructional goals and carry out work assignments in a manner that supports those goals.
• Ability to interact effectively and collaboratively with individuals and groups of all ages.
• Ability to independently organize and carry out work assignments, follow student schedules or individualized education plans, and direct the work of students and others associated with the program.
• Following adequate training, ability to provide motor instruction in a swimming pool.
• Proficient in use of classroom/program equipment and technology.
• Ability to obtain specialized training as required.
• Ability to travel among district facilities as needed; if driving, the ability to meet district driving standards.
• Standard First Aid certification, or the ability to obtain certification within two months of hire, may be required.

General Performance Requirements

• Perform duties in a courteous and efficient manner that builds the confidence of staff, students, and the public in the Corvallis School District and enhances learning.
• Observe laws, district policies and procedures, and professional standards for the position.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with school personnel, parents, students and the public; work collaboratively as a team member.
• Maintain regular attendance at work and work activities and is punctual in meeting deadlines, attending meetings, and following schedule.
• Carry out work responsibilities with strong organizational skills effectively under pressure of deadlines, difficult situations, interruptions, and new or emergency conditions.
• Respect confidential information and the privacy of students, staff, and parents.
• Support students and staff in the district's career-related learning standards to encourage the development of independent work skills through career exploration and community involvement.
• Develop job skills necessary to meet changes in the position.
• Maintain personal appearance and hygiene appropriate to the position as defined by the district.
• Meet applicable district physical ability/health and safety guidelines for the position.