Exceptional Children Teacher Assistant

Classified position; salary based on the CHCCS Salary Page, Grade 103. Reports to the Principal and/or designee, typically the classroom teacher. 10-month, nonexempt work schedule.

About the Role

Assist the teacher in providing a well-organized, smoothly functioning classroom environment. Relieve the teacher of non-teaching functions to allow more time for lesson preparation, individualization, and evaluation.

Responsibilities

• Assist the classroom teacher by working with individual students, small groups, or large groups of students.
• Reinforce learning of material or skills initially introduced by the teacher.
• Devise special strategies based on an understanding of individual students’ needs, interests, and abilities.
• Guide independent study, enrichment, or remedial activities assigned by the teacher.
• Read to students, listen to students read, and participate in oral communication with students.
• Distribute and collect workbooks, papers, and other instructional materials.
• Correct assignments and supervise testing and make-up work as assigned by the teacher.
• Assist with behavior management consistent with school and teacher policies.
• Keep the supervising teacher informed of any problems or special information about students.
• Communicate with parents as directed by the teacher while maintaining student confidentiality.
• Supervise students during breakfast, lunch, bus duty, class, emergency drills, assemblies, play periods, and field trips.
• Relieve the teacher for short-term conferences and emergencies.
• Accompany students to special classes and assist the resource teacher as needed.
• Serve as a substitute teacher if needed and appropriate.
• Provide information and assistance to substitute teachers in the absence of the regular teacher.
• Perform classroom health procedures under the supervision of the school nurse when necessary.
• Perform clerical duties such as checking and recording student attendance, collecting money, and updating bulletin boards.
• Operate and care for classroom equipment.
• Participate in in-service training programs as assigned.
• Maintain high ethical standards and confidentiality regarding student information.
• Substitute as a school crossing guard if requested.
• Perform other tasks assigned by the teacher or supervisor.

Requirements

• Must be designated as "Highly Qualified": 48 college credits or 7 credits in core subject matter and passing WorkKeys test scores.
• Previous experience working with students is desirable.
• Must become initially certified in a Crisis Intervention Program (determined by CHCCS Exceptional Children’s Department) and maintain certification if supporting students in a specialized setting.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform basic operational functions: stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, hearing, and repetitive motion.
• Ability to lift a minimum of 20 pounds.
• Ability to safely perform essential job functions consistent with ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance.