Teacher Assistant, Special Education (7799)

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title
Teacher Assistant - Special Education
Evaluation Type
Paraprofessional

Department
Designated Campus

Pay Grade
P2
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Date Revised
June 2023
Supervisor
Principal

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:
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).
Skill in utilizing general instructional strategies.
Skill in applying classroom/student discipline management.
Skill in communicating effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Skill in operating standard computer and software applications.
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:
Assist teacher with daily classroom activities; prepare/modify activities; assist with independent study or lead small groups; and inform the teacher of students' progress.
Support the improvement of instruction.
Implement strategies and supports recommended by instructional and related service providers.
Support and participate in meeting the objectives of the campus/department improvement plan.
Student Support:
Foster independence by scaffolding support as directed by the classroom teacher.
Communicate with families under the direction of the classroom teacher.
Assist in resolving parent/student issues and concerns in a timely manner.
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:
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.
Provide assistance to campuses/departments as requested.
Organization Improvement:
Work collaboratively to improve programs.
Professional Growth and Development:
Participate in professional development that increases effectiveness and improves District performance.
Texas Academic Performance Indicators and Campus Performance Objectives:
Support the administration of state-mandated testing at campuses in compliance with state and federal guidelines.
School/Community Relations:
Interact positively with employees and the community to provide needed information and to promote the District in a favorable manner.

Organization Morale:
Participate in team-building activities and the decision-making process as appropriate.
Communicate and collaborate with campus/department staff to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.
Other Responsibilities:
Comply with policies established by federal and state law, including but not limited to State Board of Education and local Board policy.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None.

PHYSICAL & MENTAL DEMANDS:
Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment; [P.E. teachers: automated external defibrillator (AED)]
Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
Motion: Frequent walking
Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may lift and move textbooks and classroom equipment.
Environment: Work inside, may work outside; regular exposure to noise
Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments.
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.
Work involves constant interpersonal interactions within the educational environment.
Work may involve aggressive, physical contact initiated by students.