Special Education Teaching Assistant (Multiple Positions Available)

JOB SUMMARY:

This class is accountable assisting certified staff with direct instructional support and the general supervision and management of students.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Valid Illinois Paraprofessional License registered in Lake County.

Preferred: Experience with students who require additional social emotional supports.

10 Month Position - $21.98 per hour minimum

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

1.Knowledge of and respect for the diverse backgrounds (cultural, linguistic, environmental) of students and how these characteristics affect the student's life and learning;

2.Knowledge of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Response to Intervention (RtI);

3.Knowledge of relevant laws, rules, regulations, and Board policies and District procedures;

4.Knowledge of the similarities and differences between cognitive, communicative, physical, social, and emotional needs of students and the factors that influence these different needs;

5.Oral and written communication skills;

6.Interpersonal and social skills;

7.Ability to apply the principles of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Response to Intervention (RtI);

8.Ability to assist and reinforce elements that support a safe, healthy, and effective teaching and learning environment;

9.Ability to assist in adapting instructional strategies and materials according to the needs of the student, under the direction of a teacher;

10. Ability to be sensitive and respectful in communications regarding all children and families, regardless of differences in cultural heritage, lifestyle, values, and home environment;

11. Ability to collect and record performance data on students under the direction of a licensed teacher, while respecting student confidentiality and the laws regarding ethical practices of assessment;

12. Ability to collect objective and accurate information on student behavior to be provided to licensed professionals, as appropriate and directed by a licensed teacher;

13. Ability to draw on knowledge and resources regarding a variety of developmental and age-appropriate instructional methods, techniques, and materials when supporting the instruction of the licensed teacher;

14. Ability to effectively employ a variety of strategies that reinforce positive behavior;

15. Ability to establish and maintain rapport with students;

16. Ability to follow oral and written direction of licensed teachers, seeking clarification as needed;

17. Ability to participate as a member of the educational team when requested to attend conferences with families or primary caregivers, with an understanding of some of the concerns of parents;

18. Ability to prepare and organize materials to support teaching and learning, as directed by a licensed teacher;

19. Ability to reinforce the development of student social skills by using appropriate strategies to modify the environment;

20. Ability to use ethical practices for confidential communication about students;

21. Ability to use strategies that promote the student's independence;

22. Ability to utilize learning styles theory in supporting instructional practices;

23. Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The following identifies the primary and essential functions of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive listing of all duties.

• Assists students with physical needs (toileting, eating, dressing, lifting required);

• Assists the teacher in observing, recording, and charting behavior;

• Assists the teacher with crisis problems and behavior management;

• Assists with group educational activities that include students on Individualized Education Plans (IEPs);

• Carries out tutoring activities designed by the teacher that include students on IEPs;

• Confers and plans with teachers related to classroom and/or IEP objectives and/or modifications, and provides documentation;

• Maintains classroom (whiteboards, etc.);

• Manages students (including those on IEPs);

• Monitors supplementary work and independent study that include students on IEPs;

• Participates in professional activities and meetings;

• Prepares classroom materials including those related to IEPs or modifications/accommodations;

• Prepares the classroom environment for learning activities;

• Provides assistance with individualized programmed materials;

• Supervises children in the hallway, lunchroom, playground, and on field trips;

• Supports instruction for individual students (one-on-one or small group), including those on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) under the direction of the supervising teacher;

• Works with audio-visual equipment, computers and/or assistive technology as related to IEP accommodations and modifications;

• Works with teachers to develop classroom schedule;

• May transport students in District vehicles, when requested;

• Performs other related duties as required.

Apply online at http://www.applitrack.com/rlas/onlineapp/default.aspx