Special Ed Aide - FOCUS

Job Title: Special Education Instructional Aide FOCUS (Behavior Support)

Wage/Hour Status: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Principal and teacher(s)

Pay Grade: Clerical/Technical 2

Calendar: 187 Days

Dept./School: Assigned Campus

Date Revised: 6.20.2022

Primary Purpose:

Help special and general education teacher provide for needs of students with special needs in special and general education setting. Assist in implementation of classroom programs, including self-help, medical/physical, behavior management, and instruction. Work under general supervision of principal and immediate direction of 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 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
• Knowledge of general office equipment

Experience:

Some experience working with children with special needs preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Instructional Support

Help prepare 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.

Instruct students and groups of students and assist in the implementation of the Individualized Education Plan including the provision of accommodations under the teacher's direction.

Work with individual students or small groups to develop fine-motor skills and conduct instructional exercises assigned by teacher or recommended by related service providers.

Help teacher record and keep academic and behavioral data as well as administrative records.

Student Management

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.

Learn and adapt to each student's special communicative and emotional needs.

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.

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

Maintain confidentiality regarding student and coworker information and as required by FERPA.

Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned.

Follow established schedule, routines, and approved lesson plans.

Demonstrate flexibility to further develop skills and flexibility in assignment and schedule changes.

Assist in maintaining an organized, clean environment.

Help with inventory, care, and maintenance of materials and equipment.

Maintain regular and consistent attendance.

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.