Job Title
Teacher Assistant - Special Education
Evaluation Type
Paraprofessional
Department
Designated Campus
BASIC FUNCTION & RESPONSIBILITY: Provide for the instructional needs of individual students with disabilities inside and outside classroom. Assist with the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEP), including self-help, behavior management, and instruction programs. Work under general supervision of principal and immediate direction of certified teacher.
ENTRY QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma or equivalent and six months of related experience preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
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Knowledge of District, campus, and classroom policies and procedures.
Knowledge of techniques used in assisting students with special needs.-
Knowledge of SAMA de-escalation and restraint techniques, First Aid and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
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Skill in utilizing general instructional strategies.
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Skill in applying classroom/student discipline management.
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Skill in communicating effectively, both verbally and in writing.
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Skill in operating standard computer and software applications.
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Ability to organize and prioritize work responsibilities.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: The essential functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the characteristic duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities noted herein; however, this is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions found in this job description.
Instructional Support:
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Assist teacher with daily classroom activities; prepare/modify activities; assist with independent study or lead small groups; and inform the teacher of students’ progress.
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Support the improvement of instruction.
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Implement strategies and supports recommended by instructional and related service providers.
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Support and participate in meeting the objectives of the campus/department improvement plan.
Student Support:
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Foster independence by scaffolding support as directed by the classroom teacher.
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Communicate with families under the direction of the classroom teacher.
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Assist in resolving parent/student issues and concerns in a timely manner.
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Assist in managing student behavior in the classroom and common campus areas in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.
Support of Administrative, Fiscal, and/or Facilities Functions:
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Assist teacher with the preparation of instructional equipment and displays; ensure specific materials and supplies are ready; maintain safe instructional area; perform clerical duties and assist with the operation of equipment.
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Provide assistance to campuses/departments as requested.
Organization Improvement:
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Work collaboratively to improve programs.
Professional Growth and Development:
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Participate in professional development that increases effectiveness and improves District performance.
Texas Academic Performance Indicators and Campus Performance Objectives:
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Support the administration of state-mandated testing at campuses in compliance with state and federal guidelines.
School/Community Relations:
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Interact positively with employees and the community to provide needed information and to promote the District in a favorable manner.
Organization Morale:
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Participate in team-building activities and the decision-making process as appropriate.
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Communicate and collaborate with campus/department staff to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.
Other Responsibilities:
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Comply with policies established by federal and state law, including but not limited to State Board of Education and local Board policy.
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Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None.
PHYSICAL & MENTAL DEMANDS:
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Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment; [P.E. teachers: automated external defibrillator (AED)]
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Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
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Motion: Frequent walking
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Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may lift and move textbooks and classroom equipment.
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Environment: Work inside, may work outside; regular exposure to noise
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Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
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Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments.
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Work involves moderate to frequent exposure to bacteria, communicable diseases, and unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
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Work involves constant interpersonal interactions within the educational environment.
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Work may involve aggressive, physical contact initiated by students.