Instructional Assistant - Emotional/Learning Support (2 Positions)

29 hours per week, 10-month position (Instructional Assistants work on normal student days). Non-exempt status under FLSA.

About the Role

An Instructional Assistant supports and assists the academic or physical needs of students with special needs in instructional programs and services. This includes one-on-one or group review of material taught by certificated staff, classroom management, and implementation of positive behavior support plans.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• Must acquire and maintain a current and active CPR and basic first aid certification
• Must meet one of the following requirements:
  • Completed at least two (2) years of post-secondary study
  • Possess an associate degree or higher
  • Meet a rigorous standard of quality as demonstrated through a State or local assessment
  • Hold a "Para Educator Credential of Competency" as issued by PDE
• Experience working in an educational setting (preferred)

Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language, including spelling, grammar, and composition
• Ability to effectively communicate with students, staff, parents, and administrators
• Ability to build and maintain working relationships and positive rapport
• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Ability to attend work regularly and maintain assigned work hours
• Proficiency in using technology and software to support student learning and communication
• Basic familiarity with adaptive and/or medical equipment as required for individual students
• Understanding of confidentiality protocols
• Foundational knowledge of special education, diversity, learning styles, and cultural awareness
• Understanding of instructional delivery, learning environments, social interactions, and assessment processes
• Commitment to professional and ethical practice, demonstrated by fairness and impartiality
• Ability to collaborate effectively with others
• Basic clerical and computer skills
• Ability to maintain discipline of students in all school settings
• Knowledge of basic office machinery operation

Responsibilities

• Work with individuals or groups to reinforce skill development as directed by the classroom teacher
• Monitor or direct student activities in individual, pair, or group settings
• Attend to the physical needs of students as required
• Supervise students in all school settings, including cafeteria, hallways, library, classrooms, study halls, and on/off buses
• Complete clerical duties such as copying, assembling, laminating, and answering phones as assigned
• Perform other duties as assigned by the classroom teacher or building administrator
• Provide a safe, secure, and positive educational environment through appropriate supervision and intervention
• Assist students individually or in groups to reinforce educational skill development, including academic content and daily living skills, as required by the IEP or School District
• Use behavior management strategies and follow protocols to meet the unique needs of each student as required by the IEP
• Prepare, adapt, and modify educational materials and supplies to enhance student understanding and learning
• Attend and complete all required staff development trainings and meetings
• Practice appropriate hygienic precautions for students, self, and the work environment
• Complete 20 hours of staff development activities related to the assignment annually between July 1st and June 30th, in accordance with Chapter 14
• Demonstrate ability to work effectively with school-age students

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, stoop, sit, lift, reach, communicate (vision, hearing, and speech), and carry or convey sufficient weight to safely and effectively perform job functions
• Ability to independently ambulate in and around school buildings and office areas
• Ability to travel to and from assigned work locations without employer support
• Ability to independently read, write, speak, and comprehend English
• Ability to lift, position, transport, and maneuver students as needed
• Ability to physically restrain students in accordance with District protocols