Special Ed Aide - STARS

Job Title: Special Education Instructional Aide - STARS (Social Training and Regulation Support)

Wage/Hour Status: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Principal and teacher(s)

Pay Grade: Clerical/Technical 3

Calendar: 187 days

Dept./School: Assigned Campus

Date Revised: 05/04/2023

PRIMARY PURPOSE

Help special and general education teachers provide for the needs of students with special needs in general and special education settings. Assist in implementation of classroom programs including self-help, medical/physical support, behavior management, and instruction. Work under general supervision of the principal and immediate direction of a certified teacher.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Certification:

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid Texas educational aide certificate (prior to day one in the classroom)
• One of the following:
• Completion of two years of study at an institution of higher education (48 semester hours of college coursework)
• Associate's degree or higher
• Meet rigorous standard of quality through an approved paraprofessional course of study (e.g., Master Teacher courses)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to work with children with special needs
• Ability to work with students exhibiting behavioral challenges
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Knowledge of general office equipment
• Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain professional relationships with students, staff, and the public

Experience:

• Experience working with children with special needs preferred

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Instructional Support

Prepare instructional materials, including modifying and adapting classroom activities, assignments, and materials under teacher direction to support IEP objectives.

Instruct individual students and small groups and assist in implementing IEP accommodations under teacher supervision.

Support development of motor skills and assist with instructional or physical activities as directed by the teacher or related service providers.

Assist the teacher in recording academic, behavioral, and administrative data.

Student Support

Assist students with physical needs, including transferring, lifting, and positioning.

Assist students with self-help and personal care, including feeding, hygiene, and restroom needs.

Support behavior management by implementing strategies outlined in IEPs, BIPs, or as directed by the teacher.

Learn and adapt to individual student needs, including medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs.

Monitor and support students throughout the school day in all settings, including classrooms, hallways, cafeteria, transportation, vocational sites, and outdoor areas.

Obtain and maintain SAMA certification if required and utilize de-escalation techniques; perform physical containment when necessary for safety.

Other

Maintain confidentiality regarding student and coworker information in accordance with FERPA.

Participate in staff development, meetings, and assigned events.

Follow established schedules, routines, and lesson plans.

Demonstrate flexibility in assignments and scheduling.

Assist in maintaining an organized and clean learning environment.

Support 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, audiovisual equipment, assistive technology, and specialized personal care or health-related equipment.

MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control in stressful environments.
Posture: Frequent standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, pushing, and pulling.
Lifting: Regular heavy lifting of students; ability to lift and control up to 50 pounds.
Environment: Exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases; may involve aggressive physical contact initiated by students.

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.