Teacher Assistant

Other duties may be assigned.

• Demonstrate initiative and creativity with students and their programs.
• Implement goals and objectives that are specified in students’ Individual Education Plans (IEP) under the direction of professional staff.
• Assist with development and implementation of classroom and individual behavior management programs and techniques.
• Understand and perform duties with awareness of possible medical needs of students. Assist with student medical needs when trained and qualified to do so. Assist students with daily needs, such as but not limited to, feeding, toileting, grooming, and other daily living activities.
• Assist professional staff with routine tasks & practices (bulletin boards, open house, etc.)
• Assist with individual or small group student instruction.
• Provide assistance to facilitate students’ non-instructional needs, such as therapy, including implementation of service programs under the direction of professional staff.
• Assist instructional staff in the supervision of students while they are loading and unloading buses, in gym, classroom or on the playground.
• Assist where necessary, with lifting students from wheelchairs to changing tables, therapy equipment, etc.
• Assist professional staff with keeping records and similar administrative support functions related to student needs.
• Regular and predictable in-person attendance is required for this position.

High school graduate or equivalent required. Preference may be given to applicants with successful experience as an aide in a day care training program or special education classroom or with advanced training related to special education instructional assistant responsibilities, or who are recommended by an educational administrator who has supervised the work of the applicant for at least one year.

Applicants for the TA position are not required to have any current certifications. Some TA assignments may involve driving a personal or school vehicle, and in those cases a valid Michigan driver’s license and good driving record are required; accommodations will be considered as necessary and appropriate.

Ability to work with children with disabilities from mild to severe, from birth to age 26. Ability to interact with public and other staff is required. Ability to maintain composure under stressful conditions. Ability to interact appropriately with students based upon developmental data. Ability to meet multiple demands from several people. Ability to develop effective working relationships with students, staff and the school community.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Ability to perform duties with awareness of all district requirements and Board of Education policies. Ability to qualify for CPR and first aid certification. Ability to learn and follow procedures for meeting student needs.

Anticipated employment date is as soon as possible. Placement on the Special Education Teacher Assistant Salary Schedule depends on qualifications and experience. A new employee hourly pay range is $18.99-$30.26. Paid health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurances, sick, and personal business days.