Special Education Instructional Assistant, Learning for Life

About the role

This position supports students with special needs in Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) Specialized Programs. The role involves implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and providing necessary support under the direction of a special education teacher.

Responsibilities

• Sets up and adapts materials, equipment, and assistive devices for use by student(s) as directed.
• Facilitates student progress toward independence.
• Makes sure students are safe and comfortable during educational and recreational activities.
• Assists students with routine physical and/or personal care not required to be performed by a nurse.
• Makes sure students meet their IEP goals and objectives.
• Carries out emergency action and/or health care plans for designated student(s).
• Supports students with classroom accessibility.
• Prioritizes work assignments appropriately.
• Completes appropriate amount of work in an efficient manner; seeks out additional assignments as time permits.
• Demonstrates support for the organization and its goals; accepts constructive criticism.
• Reports promptly for work, utilizes time wisely and maintains an acceptable attendance pattern.
• Maintains confidentiality of student information.
• Participates in professional development trainings.
• Assists with administering, scoring, and recording of assessments.
• May participate in crisis intervention techniques.
• Assists in physically aggressive behaviors as needed.
• Assists in student mobility, moving wheelchairs, operating lifting devices and assisting students with self-care needs.
• Supports the delivery of education and services to students with moderately to severe behavioral needs.
• Supports in the delivery of education and services to students with moderately to severe communication needs.
• Supports in the delivery of education and services to students with moderately to severe intellectual needs.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• 48 college credits, AA degree, or passing one of the following exams (ParaPathways, Pearson NES: Foundations of Classroom Support, or Pearson NES: Foundations of Classroom Support & Instruction).
• One (1) to three (3) years' experience in working with students with moderately to severe behavioral, communicative and/or intellectual needs in a school or educational setting.
• CPR/First Aid Training (completed within first year of hire if not current)
• District approved Crisis Prevention training program (completed within first year of hire)
• Registered Behavior Technician Training (completed within first year of hire)

Qualifications

• Communicates clearly, concisely in both oral and written form.
• Willingness to participate in training programs or professional development designed by the principal or central office staff as it pertains to the job function.
• Capable of performing the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

Skills

• Working knowledge of English, spelling, vocabulary, and mathematics.

Benefits

For more information about employee benefits, please visit: https://www.fcps.org/staff/benefits

Pay

$24.32 per hour starting

Schedule

11-month position (208 days / year), 7 hours per day