SpEd Paraprofessional - Essential Academics

Assist in implementation of classroom programs, including self-help, behavior management, and instruction programs under the general supervision of the principal and immediate direction of a certified teacher. In special education settings, help the special education teacher provide for the physical and instructional needs of students with disabilities.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid Texas Educational Aide Certificate
• Completion of at least two years of study at an institution of higher education (48 semester hours of college coursework); or an associate’s degree; or demonstrated knowledge and ability to assist in instructing reading, writing, and math (or readiness) through a formal state or local academic assessment

Skills

• Ability to work with children with disabilities
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Effective communication skills
• Knowledge of general office equipment

Experience

• Some experience working with children

Responsibilities

• Help teacher prepare instructional materials and classroom displays
• Maintain a neat and orderly classroom
• Assist with inventory, care, and maintenance of equipment
• Help teacher keep administrative records and prepare required reports
• Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers
• Assist students with physical disabilities, including transferring to and from wheelchairs, lifting, or positioning as necessary
• Help manage behavior of students, including intervening in crisis situations and restraining disruptive or dangerous behavior as needed
• Adapt to each student’s special medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs
• Work with individual students or small groups to develop motor skills and conduct instructional exercises assigned by the teacher
• Supervise students throughout the school day, inside and outside the classroom (e.g., lunchroom, bus, playground)
• Keep teacher informed of special needs or problems of individual students
• Maintain confidentiality
• Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned
• Maintain district records in accordance with policies and retention schedules
• Perform other duties as assigned

Equipment Used

• Wheelchair lift, ramp
• Personal computer, copier, and audiovisual equipment as necessary