Teacher Assistant, Special Education ECSE

Position: Teacher Assistant, Special Education ECSE (9695)
JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title

Teacher Assistant, Special Education

Evaluation Type

Paraprofessional

Department

Assigned Campus

Pay Grade

P2

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Date Revised

December 2023

Supervisor

Principal / Assigned Teacher

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.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

* High school diploma or equivalent

Special 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.

Experience:

* Six (6) months of related experience preferred

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

MENTAL DEMANDS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

* 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