Instructional Assistant, Special Education

McAllen Independent School District Cathey Middle School - McAllen, Texas Open in Google Maps

Job : 5967526

Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled

Posted: Oct 21, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

PRIMARY

PURPOSE:

To assist the classroom teacher in providing curriculum activities and experiences designed to their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical and social growth of all special education students

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

High School Diploma or equivalent, required

Associate degree or a minimum of 48 college hours, required

Paraprofessional Certification, preferred (required upon employment)

Special Knowledge/

Skills:

Ability to read, write, and comprehend simple instructions; ability to work with emotionally, physically and/or mentally impaired students; ability to maintain composure under stressful conditions; and ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing

Basic computer skills performed, preferred

Experience:

Background in working with special needs children or adults, preferred

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES/

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Assist teacher in daily classroom operations and help provide a supportive learning environment.
• Assist with behavior management and medical needs of students.
• Assist in supervising students throughout the workday.
• Feed or help students feed themselves.
• Assist with special toileting needs.
• Monitor students to and from buses, in cafeteria, in inclusion classrooms and in hallways to and from activities.
• Sanitize room and equipment.
• Assist teachers in planning and preparation of instructional materials.
• Under supervision of the special education teacher, work with small groups of students to reinforce material initially introduced by the teacher.
• Follow McAllen ISD customer service standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned by immediate supervisor (primary evaluator).

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

EQUIPMENT USED:

Computer, copiers, multimedia equipment, and other office or classroom machines

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands:

Ability to make rational decisions under stressful circumstances; deal with special needs children in a caring, supportive, but non-emotional manner

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Ability to lift or move at least 40 pounds and push over 100 pounds; must be able to work in a noisy environment; ability to provide for sanitation needs and student hygiene; assist in restraining students in crisis situations.

Days:187

Hourly Pay Range:

Minimum: $14.75

Maximum: $20.37

Note:Starting pay for a new hire in a pay range plan will be determined indvidually based on each person's job-related experience and salaries paid to peer employees in the same position with similar experience.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $14.75 to $20.37 Per Hour

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required

• Miguel Herrera , Principal
• Cathey Middle School
• Phone:
• Email: