Instructional Assistant - Special Education, Special Assignment, 1-on-1

About the role

Provides support and assists in coordinating instructional programs relating to special education students and their Individual Education Plans (IEP).

Maintains an environment conducive to learning.

Responsibilities

• Makes sure to protect the confidentiality of personally identifiable information in accordance with FERPA and other applicable laws.
• Maintains an encouraging, caring, safe, and healthful environment for all students.
• Aids teachers with strategies related to the implementation of students' behavioral intervention plans.
• Assists teachers with planning and organizing, evaluating instructional activities, developing classroom procedures, and preparing necessary materials.
• Maintains a positive disposition, exercises good judgment, and remains calm when dealing with students at all times.
• Supports students by providing for special health care needs, including personal hygiene, restroom functions, diapering, mobility assistance, seizure control, feeding needs, adaptive equipment needs, and behavioral assistance.
• Coordinates, assists, and facilitates student transitions between classes.
• Compiles, maintains, and files reports, records, and other required documents, maintaining confidentiality.
• Participates in the district staff development program and continues professional growth in the area of assignment.
• Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED and is working toward an Associate’s degree in birth-through-kindergarten, child development, early childhood education, or an early childhood education related field, or a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
• Instructional assistants working toward the minimum of an Associate Degree or CDA shall make progress by completing a minimum of six documented semester hours per year.
• Meets the employment requirements outlined by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Pub.L. 114-95, and has one of the following: Six documented semester hours of coursework in early childhood education, or Two years of work experience in an early childhood setting.
• Experience working with or assisting individuals with special needs.

Skills

• Working knowledge of successful instructional delivery methods;
• Working knowledge of general classroom activities and routines;
• Ability to protect the confidentiality of personally identifiable information in accordance with FERPA and other applicable federal and state laws, policies, and regulations;
• Ability to work in a team environment and effectively collaborate with others;
• Ability to motivate students;
• Ability to constantly monitor and supervise the safety and well-being of students;
• Ability to recognize and support students with a variety of backgrounds, abilities, exceptionalities, behavioral needs, and learning styles;
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form using a variety of communication techniques and tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information, collaborative efforts, and feedback;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school system staff, students, parents, businesses, community agencies, and the public.