Substitute Classroom Signing Assistant

Classroom Signing Assistant

The Classroom Signing Assistant's primary role is to assist in all aspects of the daily instructional program for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. The classroom signing assistant may be responsible for an individual student or small group instruction under the direct or indirect supervision of the classroom teacher or other person designated by NSSEO Deaf and Hard of Hearing to direct or supervise classroom assistants.

Essential functions include:

• Assisting in the preparation and delivery of the education program under the supervision of, and as directed by the designated staff member.
• Conducting individual and small group instruction under the direction of the teacher or related service staff.
• Assisting in the implementation of behavior management systems as established by the program.
• Assisting in crisis prevention and intervention in a manner consistent with program policy under the supervision of designated supervisor.
• Assisting in toileting and feeding of students under the supervision of, and as directed by designated supervisor.
• Communicating effectively with students in the students' preferred mode of communication as established by the program.
• Participating in general staff meetings, training programs and in-service sessions as required.
• Establishing and maintaining effective relationships with students and staff.
• Providing ongoing care for classroom equipment and materials.
• Demonstrating cooperation, openness for growth and willingness to contribute to a team approach to the educational program.
• Responsible for any data collection and facilitating accommodations as required by the assigned licensed staff member.

Other functions include:

• Performing other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the program.
• Facilitating an office atmosphere of service, competence and congeniality.
• Supporting NSSEO policy, NSSEO, and governing board goals and objectives, and The School Code of Illinois.

Working environment includes:

• Occasionally required to lift, carry, push and/or pull.
• Constantly required to reach, handle, and/or use fine motor dexterity.
• Seldom required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Exposure to temperature extremes, hazardous conditions, and injury is seldom or not present.

Minimum qualifications include:

• Meeting the state requirements for Educator License with Stipulations endorsed for Paraprofessionals.
• Ability to read, write and communicate in English to understand directions and communicate with students and staff. Proficient in sign language.
• Experience working with students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Ability to physically move about the building.
• Ability to lift and position students (30-80 pounds) if assigned to a classroom with such requirements.

Specific requirements include:

• Proficient use of technology including accessing the internet, email, phone systems, and software.
• Ability to independently problem-solve, schedule daily activities, make announcements, and use job related equipment.
• Flexibility to work with others in a variety of circumstances and to work with a significant diversity of student abilities and needs.