Special Education Assistant (SEA) - Lori Mann Carey - 0.8 FTE - 26-27 SY

About the role

The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is seeking a Special Education Assistant to support students with disabilities across the developmental lifespan. The position works closely with a Special Education Teacher or Student Services staff member.

Responsibilities

• Support "learning through play-based activities" in early childhood programs.
• Implement modified curriculum and intervention strategies for academic reinforcement in 4K-12 settings.
• Provide on-site job coaching and vocational training for students aged 18-21.
• Prepare adapted materials and assist with inclusive literacy practices.
• Assist with behavioral intervention and student supervision, including emotional regulation and safe space procedures.
• Perform frequent headcounts and maintain "reach-close" proximity during transitions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to provide feedback on student performance.
• Coordinate daily travel schedules for community-based instruction and work-site rotations.
• Perform sensitive personal care tasks and assist with mobility and technology.
• Record and document progress data accurately and maintain strict confidentiality.
• Engage in ongoing training to stay current on safety protocols, medical updates, and inclusive instructional strategies.

Requirements

• Have an Associate’s Degree or complete 48 academic credits beyond high school.
• Pass an onsite assessment offered by the District in lieu of meeting one of the requirements above.
• Hold a Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction Special Education Program Aide License (1015).

Qualifications

• Understanding of special education terminology and high expectations for all students.
• Ability to modify and deliver curriculum materials and literacy activities as directed by a licensed professional.
• Behavioral support and de-escalation skills, including remaining calm and professional during high-stress situations.
• Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting high- and low-tech adaptive devices, communication boards, and specialized educational software.
• Ability to perform sensitive personal care tasks, including diapering, bathroom assistance, and administering tube feedings or medications.
• Data accuracy in recording objective academic and behavioral data and maintaining strict student confidentiality.
• Interpersonal collaboration with a multidisciplinary team (OT, PT, SLP, and teachers).
• Environmental navigation, ability to transition between classroom, community-based, and vocational settings.
• Physical strength and mobility for frequent lifting, pushing, pulling, and assisting with orthopedic equipment.
• Sensory awareness, ability to work in environments with varying noise levels, lighting, and activity.
• Observation and monitoring of subtle changes in a student’s physical health or emotional state.
• Hygiene and safety compliance, commitment to following strict health and sanitation policies, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Skills

• Inclusive Practices
• Instructional Adaptability
• Behavioral Support & De-escalation
• Assistive Technology Proficiency
• Personal Care Competency
• Data Accuracy
• Interpersonal Collaboration
• Environmental Navigation
• Physical Strength & Mobility
• Sensory Awareness
• Observation & Monitoring
• Hygiene & Safety Compliance
• Transportation Assistance

Benefits

MMSD offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Compensation: $25.47 hourly wage (26-27 Salary Schedule)
• Health insurance options
• Paid time off
• Retirement savings plan
• Professional development opportunities

Pay

$25.47 hourly wage (26-27 Salary Schedule)

Schedule

Non-exempt, variable schedule based on the needs of the district and the specific responsibilities of the position.