Instructional Assistant - Special Services (2026-2027)

Essential Job Functions

• Implements, under the supervision of an assigned teacher and/or professional staff:
  • academic instructional programs
  • lesson plans (e.g., reading, math, language comprehension, writing, computer, etc.)
  • functional instructional programs (e.g., self-esteem, behavior, daily living, organization, etc.)
  • carryover of related services (e.g., occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech, adapted physical education, hearing, and/or vision)
• Monitors and supervises individual and/or groups of students in a variety of settings (e.g., classrooms, restrooms, playgrounds, hallways, bus loading/unloading zones, cafeteria, assemblies, field trips, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining a safe and positive learning environment.
• Assists with lifting (up to 50 pounds), and other activities of daily living including toileting, feeding, cleaning, transferring, and positioning of students as needed.
• Assists in medical related duties (e.g., catheterization, gastrointestinal feedings, assisted breathing devices, colostomy, and ileostomy) as trained by professional staff and as needed.
• Performs clerical tasks (e.g., adapts classroom activities, assignments and/or materials, makes copies, files, designs bulletin boards, use computer and necessary software applications) under the direction of the classroom teacher, for the purpose of supporting and reinforcing classroom objectives.
• Accurately documents and assists with record-keeping as directed by professional staff and effectively communicates with teachers and other district personnel regarding students’ overall needs, progress, etc.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Develop and maintain an empathetic attitude toward students with disabilities.
• Develop effective relationships with students, parents, and staff while maintaining confidentiality.
• Work cooperatively with others in a positive manner.
• Perform multiple tasks with a need to occasionally upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions.
• Perform basic math, read a variety of manuals, write documents using prescribed formats, solve practical problems.
• Work with a diverse population of students and adults in a variety of circumstances in a professional manner.

Education And/or Experience

• Complete at least two years of study at an institution of higher education (60 hours of college credits)
• Possess an Associate’s Degree or higher
• Provide documentation of passing the Paraprofessional Exam

Physical Demands

• Duties performed typically in school settings to include: classrooms, gymnasium, cafeteria, auditorium, and recreational areas.
• Frequent walking, standing, sitting, stooping, lifting of equipment, materials, and/or students up to 50 pounds is required.
• Lifting, movement, and transferring of students is required.
• Movement of students by wheelchairs and other physical contact with and/or possible exposure to bodily fluids may occur.
• Daily personal close contact with students to provide classroom management and learning environment support is required.
• Travel between schools, or between schools and district office, may be required for certain positions.

Terms Of Employment

• 190 days per year, 7 hours per day, Monday-Friday, Non-Exempt
• Salary S6a FMSD Salary Schedule, Salary commensurate with education and experience based on district formula

Evaluation

• Performance will be evaluated annually in accordance with provisions of the board’s policy on evaluation of non-certificated personnel.