Paraeducator (RLC) SPED

Basic Function

Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, perform a variety of instructional tasks in support of a special education classroom of students with emotional, educational, physical and/or behavioral problems; assist the teacher by performing a variety of clerical duties related to special education programs; assist in monitoring and responding to students with special needs.

Representative Duties

• Assist in the instruction of students with emotional, educational, physical and/or behavioral problems; maintain sensitivity to learning difficulties encountered by students with special needs.
• Assist a certificated teacher by providing individual assistance to students in academic areas; work with small groups of students to reinforce instruction provided by the teacher.
• Assist in the review of student history and in the review of individual education plans as directed; review daily lesson plan with instructional personnel.
• Assist in the development and presentation of learning materials and instructional exercises; assist in compliance with established timelines and activities related to the master plan.
• Assist students with activities for the development of small muscles and eye-hand coordination and deficiencies; lead activities designed to help students achieve motor control and body awareness.
• Observe behavior of students to assure safety; assist in resolving student disputes; assist in the development and management of appropriate student behavior using positive reinforcement techniques.
• Set up work areas and prepare areas for reading, crafts and other activities; set up exhibits, displays, collections and bulletin boards.
• Order and operate a variety of instructional and audio-visual equipment as required; operate copiers, computers, typewriter and general office machines as needed.
• Maintain routine records related to student work and classroom activities; grade tests and check student test corrections; maintain confidentially of student records according to established policies and guidelines.
• Assist in performing clerical tasks such as typing, duplicating, filing and taking attendance; distribute and account for an inventory of textbooks, supplies and equipment.
• Accompany mainstreamed students to regular classrooms as assigned; provide individual instructional assistance.
• Monitor children on the playground, on educational field trips and during lunch time; monitor students getting on and off school buses as assigned; assist in planning and arranging field trips and special activities and transport children on field trips as assigned.
• Confer with teachers concerning programs and materials to meet students' needs as necessary; administer and score classroom tests as assigned.
• Attend staff meetings and in-service programs as required; attend meetings related to curriculum or student issues as needed.
• Translate oral and written communications between teacher, child, parents and district personnel as needed.
• Perform first aid in emergency situations according to established guidelines; observe health and safety rules and procedures.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge Of

• General needs and behavior of children.
• Basic subjects taught in district schools including math, reading, writing, grammar, and spelling.
• Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary.
• Correct oral and written usage of English and a designated second language as required.
• Safe practices in classroom activities.
• Classroom procedures and appropriate student conduct.
• Problems and concerns of students with special emotional, educational, physical and/or behavioral needs.
• Basic instructional methods and techniques.
• Basic student behavior management and modification techniques and principles.
• Operation of standard office equipment including computers.
• Basic record-keeping techniques.

Ability To

• Reinforce instruction to individual or small groups of special education students as directed by the teacher.
• Learn and apply curriculum content and objectives to students with special needs.
• Work effectively with handicapped students earning their confidence and trust.
• Assist with instruction and related activities in a classroom or assigned learning environment.
• Implement teacher-directed activities thoroughly.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
• Maintain classroom and playground area in a safe, clean and orderly condition.
• Perform clerical duties including typing and preparing and maintaining routine records.
• Observe health and safety regulations.
• Perform first aid according to established procedures and guidelines.
• Demonstrate an understanding, patient and receptive attitude towards children.
• Learn indoor and outdoor recreational activities suitable for learning handicapped students.
• Learn and apply basic first aid techniques and practices.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with children and adults.
• Perform routine clerical tasks.
• Operate standard office machines and equipment.
• Understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Read, write, translate and interpret English and a designated second language as required.

Education And Experience

Any combination equivalent to: graduation from high school and one year of experience working with children in an organized setting.

Licenses And Other Requirements

• Some positions in this classification may require a valid California driver's license, evidence of appropriate automobile insurance based on DMV regulations and insurable by the District liability insurance carrier.
• Standard First Aid Certificate must be obtained within the probationary period.
• Some positions in this classification may be required to speak a second designated language.