Paraeducator - Vision/Resource Support Program 1:1

Position Summary

The paraeducator in this position must be willing to work 1:1 with a special needs student under the direction of the certificated teacher of the visually impaired. By providing direct instruction to students to increase their visual efficiency skills, modifying materials and assisting students in the operation and maintenance of specialized equipment. Students may be medically fragile and/or have behavior problems which could range from mild to severe. This position supports the teacher and other caregivers with a variety of instructional and physical tasks that will help the student achieve the highest level of independent functioning possible when appropriate.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in the care of medically fragile or behaviorally challenged student as directed and or stated in their IEP
• Assist in the daily instruction of the assigned student and other students
• Assist with the development, implementation and evaluation of IEP goals and objectives
• Assist in the planning of daily/weekly individual and group lessons based on IEP goals and objectives
• Assist the vision program staff with modifications and supplemental services necessary for the education of students with visual impairments
• Assist in implementing each student's IEP goals and objectives
• Assist in the production, ordering, dissemination and return of braille, large print and audio materials and equipment
• Maintain communication with the vision program supervisor and staff, and other district personnel and agencies
• Operate, and assist students in the operation and maintenance of specialized equipment such as Braillers, keyboarding equipment, electronic scanners, low vision devices, and personal computers
• Train other staff members in the use of specialized equipment
• Assist in providing instruction to students on how to use low vision devices and equipment
• Work toward developing and maintaining, in oneself and in the students, proper attitudes, good work habits and respect for the rights and properties of others and to maximize students' independence
• Assist in the maintenance of confidentially of student records
• Assist the teacher in keeping administrative records and preparing required reports
• Keep instructional staff informed of any special needs or problems of individual students
• Assist the vision program staff with promoting and maintaining program goals
• Provide technical information to paraeducators and other staff regarding accommodations and materials used by visually impaired students
• Collect, analyze, and maintain data to modify IEP and help determine program effectiveness
• Provide all staff with essential information to meet IEP goals and objectives
• Assist in developing and implementing behavior plans for the student
• Assist with the teaching of appropriate daily living skills, including personal hygiene, communication and classroom routines
• Change diapers and/or toilet train as needed
• Assist student with successful transitions such as music, P.E., library, motor activities, lunch, and recess
• Assist in transferring student, if in a wheelchair, from chair to floor and back, from chair to toilet and back or to special equipment (i.e., Stander, special chair, etc.) using either a Hoyer lift or 1 – 2 person lift
• Practice effective safety and security within individual work routines
• Perform instructional clerical tasks
• Work collaboratively with District staff and promote teamwork with co-workers
• Assist substitute teacher with helpful information pertinent to the classroom

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• And one of the following:
  • AA degree, OR
  • High school diploma (or equivalent) and 48 college-level semester credits or 72 college-level quarter credits, OR
  • High school diploma (or equivalent) and pass the state approved paraeducator assessment test
• Have proficiency in basic spelling, math and grammar skills
• Possess strong background and training in reading instruction, remediation, and assessment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with visually impaired students

Conditions of Employment

• Pass a criminal background check
• Washington State driver's license
• Possess and maintain district-paid Type II driver's license
• Possess and maintain district-paid Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) certificated course
• Complete the district's paraeducator core competency requirements
• Successfully complete the FWPS district-approved Right Response training at the advanced level at the next available time; maintain current certification at the advanced level through an annual recertification class
• Work scheduled hours on a consistent basis

Knowledge of

• Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
• English grammar and spelling
• Basic math
• Positive behavior interventions
• Right Response and de-escalation techniques
• School Board Policies

Ability to

• Demonstrate basic knowledge of modern technology and willingness and ability to increase knowledge to proficiency
• Work independently and work collaboratively with others fostering a team approach whenever appropriate
• Maintain a good work attendance record, be punctual, and follow District procedures for reporting all absences
• Demonstrate enthusiasm, flexibility and a commitment to students
• Practice effective safety and security within individual work routines
• Develop and maintain positive relations with staff and service providers
• Follow written and verbal directions with minimal supervision
• Speak, read and follow written communications in English
• Perform basic spelling, math and grammar skills
• Demonstrate the desire, skill and patience to work with students with special emotional, academic and social needs, which may include violent behavior
• Demonstrate a caring attitude and establish an environment that encourages appropriate behavior and successful learning
• Exercise judgment as to when to act independently and when to refer to higher authority
• Practice ethical and professional standards of conduct including the requirements of confidentiality
• Communicate effectively with staff, students, parents/guardians, and the public in a multicultural and multiracial community
• Interact positively with students, parents and staff in a professional manner and demonstrate a commitment for students and their success
• Continue professional growth
• Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Related to Cultural Competence and Equity

• Knowledge/awareness of own cultural identity and how this influences behavior, and desire to learn about the cultural identity of others
• Ability to establish and nurture an environment that promotes cultural competence and equitable treatment of staff, students, and patrons of the District
• Ability to understand and hold self and others accountable for promoting the Federal Way Public Schools' commitment to "Each Scholar: A Voice. A Dream. A Bright Future."
• Ability to recognize that each person is a unique individual even as we celebrate their group cultural heritage

Physical Demands

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee will frequently stand and walk, bend neck and back, use hands for repetitive grasping and pushing/pulling
• The employee is frequently required to squat, kneel, and use hands for fine manipulation
• The employee will occasionally be required to sit, climb stairs/ladder, lift and reach overhead, crawl, and lift/carry
• The employee must constantly lift/carry up to 5 pounds and must frequently lift/carry up to 10 pounds
• The employee will occasionally lift/carry a maximum of 50 lbs
• The employee is occasionally required to push/pull a maximum force of 20 lbs

Work Conditions

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in indoor conditions and intermittently works near video display
• The employee occasionally may be exposed to outdoor weather conditions
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate
• Position regularly requires exposure to angry, frustrated, or aggressive individuals, typically in a school classroom environment

Work Schedule

This is a school year assignment. Hours and days will vary slightly from school to school.

Reporting Relationships

Position reports to classroom teacher and/or department head and building principal. Position is evaluated by the building principal or designee.

Representation

Public School Employees Union (PSE) SEIU Local 1948

Level of Compensation

Paraeducator position on the PSE Salary Schedule. This position includes the following benefits prorated based on FTE – Medical, dental vision, sick and vacation leave, life insurance, retirement.

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