Instructional Aide III, Life Skills

Primary Purpose

Help meet physical and instructional needs of individual students with disabilities inside and outside classroom. Assist with the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEP), including self-help, behavior management, and instruction programs. Work under general supervision of principal and immediate direction of certified teacher.

Qualifications

Education/Certification:

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid Texas educational aide certificate
• NCLB Criteria (2 years of study at an institution of higher education; an Associate Degree or higher; or can pass a formal academic paraprofessional assessment)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to work with children with disabilities
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to communicate effectively

Experience:

• Some experience working with children

Major Responsibilities And Duties

Instructional Support:

• Assist teacher/administrator in preparing instructional materials and classroom displays.
• Assist with administration and scoring of objective testing instruments or work assignments.
• Help maintain neat and orderly classroom.
• Help with inventory, care, and maintenance of equipment.
• Help teacher keep administrative records and prepare required reports.
• Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers.
• Other Instructional Support Duties as assigned.

Student Management:

• Help meet the individual needs of student(s) including transferring to and from wheelchairs; lifting and positioning; interpreting instructions; and assisting with physical needs and personal care such as feeding, bathroom needs, and personal hygiene.
• Help manage the behavior of assigned student(s). This includes intervening in crisis situations and restraining disruptive or dangerous student as needed.
• Recognize differences in student's special medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs and adapt methods and interaction according.
• Work with assigned student(s) or small groups to develop motor skills and conduct instructional exercises assigned by teacher.
• Assist assigned students throughout school day, inside and outside classroom. This includes lunchroom, bus, and playground duty.
• Keep teacher informed of special needs or problems of assigned student(s).

Other:

• Maintain confidentiality.
• Participate in professional development programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned.
• Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Participate in other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.

Equipment Used

Copier, personal computer, typewriter, and audiovisual equipment.

Working Conditions

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals
• Posture: Prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
• Motion: Repetitive hand motions including frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching
• Lifting: Occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds)
• Environment: May work prolonged or irregular hours; frequent districtwide travel; occasional statewide travel and out-of-state travel
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions, maintain emotional control under stress