Job Title: Special Education Instructional Aide - Structured Learning Classroom (SLC)                

Wage/Hour Status: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Principal and teacher(s)                                     

Pay Grade: Clerical/Technical 3

Dept./School: Assigned Campus                                              

Date Revised: 06.20.2022

 

 

Primary Purpose:

Support the special education teacher with learning activities and experiences designed to help students with intense behavior needs in the special and general education settings. Assist in the implementation of classroom programs, including behavior management and academic instruction. Work under the general supervision of the campus principal and immediate direction of the certified teacher.

 

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

High school diploma or GED; and

Valid Texas educational aide certificate (may obtain after employment if not already held);

One of the following:

• Completion of two years of study at an institution of higher education (completion of 48 semester hours of college coursework); or
• Associate’s degree or higher; or
• Meet rigorous standard of quality as demonstrated through an approved course of study for paraprofessionals (e.g., ESC 13 courses)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to work with children with special needs
• Ability to work with children with behavioral disorders
• Ability to work with children with history of trauma
• Ability to exercise good judgement and maintain professional relationship in dealing with students, faculty, and the public
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to remain calm under stressful conditions
• Knowledge of general office equipment

Experience:

Some experience working with children with behavior disorders preferred

 

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Instructional Support

1. Under direct or indirect supervision, provide individual and small group instruction and/or intensive behavior intervention.
2. Assist in the implementation of the student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) including the provision of accommodations, modifications, and behavior intervention plan (BIP)
3. Collect academic and behavioral data and records anecdotal student progress notes; maintain daily behavioral charting data.
4. Assist teacher in preparing instructional materials including modifying/adapting classroom activities, assignments, and/or materials under the direction of the teacher for the purpose of supporting and reinforcing IEP objectives.
5. Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to provide academic and behavior instruction to students.
6. Build relationships with student, foster student-peer relationships, and student-teacher relationships

Student Management

1. Help manage behavior of students by implementing behavior strategies as outlined in the Individual Education Plan and Behavior Intervention Plan or directed by the teacher.
2. Learn and adapt to each student’s special communicative and emotional needs.
3. Monitor student conduct and utilize approved research-based behavior management techniques to redirect and modify inappropriate behaviors.
4. Assist students in learning expected social awareness skills and in developing self-monitoring skills.
5. Help support/monitor students throughout the school day, inside and outside the classroom. This may include field trips, at lunch, in hallways, on/off the school bus, and playground or outdoor areas.
6. Obtain and maintain SAMA certification and implement de-escalation techniques. In a crisis situation when a student is a threat to self or others, be able to perform a physical containment.

Other

1. Maintain confidentiality regarding student and coworker information and as required by FERPA.
2. Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned.
3. Follow established schedule, routines, and approved lesson plans.
4. Demonstrate flexibility to further develop skills and flexibility in assignment and schedule changes.
5. Assist in maintaining an organized, clean environment.
6. Help with inventory, care, and maintenance of materials and equipment.
7. Maintain regular and consistent attendance.
8. Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None.

 

Equipment Used:

Laptop or desktop computer, copier, tablet device, audiovisual equipment, and software necessary for administrative and educational tasks

 

Working Conditions:

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Maintain emotional control in possible stressful environments. Frequent standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, pushing, and pulling; regular heavy lifting of students. Be able to lift and control up to 50 pounds. Biological exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases possible. Work may involve aggressive, physical contact initiated by students.

 

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.