Behavior Paraprofessional

Job Title

Special Education Aide

Assists the classroom teacher and/or special education teacher in achieving the goals and objectives as stated on each child's current Individual Education Plan (IEP) through individual, small group, or whole group instruction.

At least two years of college level coursework or an Associate's Degree in education or related field. Previous aide or teaching experience preferred. Ability to lift up to forty pounds and push and pull up to one hundred pounds. Knowledge of child growth and the diverse needs of children with disabilities. Knowledge of appropriate special education classroom practices. The ability to work with students with emotional, physical, and mental disabilities.

Ability to instruct students one-on-one and small group situations, at the direction of the Special Education Teacher. Strong background in teaching methods and developmentally appropriate classroom activities. Demonstrated knowledge of subject matter and effective teaching methods. Knowledgeable about word processing, data bases, spread sheets, and reports. Ability to maintain a learning environment. Works well with students, staff, and the public.

Excellent organizational skills. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Able to work under pressure and deadlines. Maintain confidentiality of staff and students.

Working with behavioral students. Maintain high academic standards and expectations. Provide tutorial help to students following lessons prescribed by the teacher and reinforce material and skills using a variety of methods as directed by certified staff. Provide immediate feedback on student performance. Respond to students' questions and requests for assistance. Observe students' work and study habits. Observe and record students' time on task when needed.

Assist students in locating prescribed instructional materials and starting their assignments. Work with individual students or small groups of students to reinforce learning of material and skills introduced by the teacher. Help students master equipment or instructional materials assigned by teacher. Provide individualized instruction activities using materials and sequences selected by the special education teacher and other related services personnel.

Identify pupil needs and provide instruction appropriate to those needs. Follow modifications and accommodations as specified in IEPs. Assist with such large group activities as drill and practice, reading aloud, and storytelling, and participate in other forms of oral communication with students. Guide independent study, enrichment work, and remedial work assigned by the teacher. Assist students in the library or media center.

Assist with the supervision of students during emergency drills, assemblies, play periods, and field trips. Encourage students to strive to meet their highest potential. Communicate classroom rules, and encourage students to set and maintain standards of classroom behavior. Other Classroom Assistance. Assist the teacher in devising special strategies for reinforcing material or skills based on an understanding of individual students, their needs, interests, and abilities.

Alert the supervising teacher to any problem or special information about an individual student. Serve as the chief source of information and help to any substitute teacher assigned in the absence of the regular teacher. Keep the supervising teacher informed of activities and any issues that may arise. Engage children in conversation to encourage language development. Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.

Other. Keep accurate records and maintain individual records for each student. Become familiar with basic special education knowledge as covered by the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act with an emphasis on due process procedures and confidentiality of information and records. Complete clerical duties as assigned by the supervising teacher. Attend faculty meetings as required. Keep immediate supervisor informed of activities and…