Instructional Assistant - Preschool

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Provides responsible administrative, clerical, and human support in assisting the classroom teacher in the management and instruction of students; performs related tasks as required and directed; all work is performed under the direction and supervision of the classroom teacher, however, the assistant may independently carry out particular aspects of the instructional program. Assists in organizing students' supplies and materials. Ensures everything is in proper place and is readily accessible.

Maintains a clean and orderly classroom by helping students in cleaning up equipment after instructional activities and making sure that there is no potential hazard present in the classroom.

• Assist teachers with instructional activities in reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies and other classes;
• Reinforce skills taught by the classroom teacher;
• Assist children individually with social/emotional behaviors, including understanding and following directions and rules;
• Assist small groups of children in various subject areas under the direction of the classroom teacher;
• Collect, record and maintain data on students as directed by the teacher;
• Assist teachers in providing for the individual needs, abilities, and interests of the students;
• Assist teachers in implementing daily and long‑range lesson plans;
• Assist in the development, preparation and gathering of instructional materials and learning aids;
• Prepare the classroom for instruction;
• Participate in meetings when directed (e.g., staff meetings, meetings with parents, training, etc.);
• Monitor students during class, off‑site educational trips, lunch, recess, etc.;
• Assist students with personal hygiene including toileting as needed;
• Perform related work as required.

General knowledge of the practices, methods and techniques used in the teaching of children including students with special education needs; ability to maintain files and information; ability to deal effectively with students and teachers; skill in the use of classroom and instructional equipment; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with teachers, parents, students and coworkers. Able to demonstrate excellent communication skills.

Ability to operate general office equipment, word‑processing equipment, and computers to accomplish the work assigned. Have an innate passion in dealing with very young children. Must be able to multitask and be flexible as working with kindergartner's age group is often challenging and unpredictable.

Requirements for Title I School Placements:

• Has passed the Paraprofessional Assessment with a minimum score of 455; or
• Has a minimum of 48 college credits; or
• A minimum of an Associate’s Degree.

Assignment placement may require additional training requirements such as and/or specific training on aspects of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

High school diploma and previous experience working with groups of children.

A comparable amount of training and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.

Preferred
:
Associate degree – CDA in Child Development preferred. Prior experience working with groups of children.

JOB TITLE
:
Instructional Assistant – Preschool

LOCATION
:
Assigned School

WORK SCHEDULE
: 10 M 7.25 Hrs.

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR
:
Teacher/ Preschool Management Staff

PAYGRADE
: 5

SALARY SCALE
:
Uniform

REPORTS
: none

FLSA STATUS
:
Non‑Exempt

Frequent walking, standing, lifting up to 50 pounds unassisted, and other physical activities are required. Movement of students by wheelchair and other mechanical devices may be required. Occasional lifting of equipment such as audio‑visuals, regular standing, sitting, walking, bending, twisting, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching and significant pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and various repetitive motions are also required. Must be able to effectively use and operate various items of office related equipment, such as, but not limited to a personal computer, calculator, copier, and fax machine.

Work is typically performed in the classroom.

Updated 7/2016/Rev. 7/11 (Posting Review);
Hanover County Public Schools assures Equal Employment Opportunities and equal education opportunities for employees and students as required by Federal and State Orders and Laws. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential tasks. This job description is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements. However, management and administration reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary.

It is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all‑inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position.