FOCUS Instructional Assistant

Instructional Assistant - Special Education

Federal legislation known as "No Child Left Behind" requires that beginning January 8, 2002, paraprofessionals be required to have one of the following:

• An associate of arts degree
• Two years of college (48 credit hours)
• Pass the Para Pro exam (state assessment test for knowledge of an ability to assist in the instruction of reading, writing and math)

Reports to:

Principal and under supervision of the classroom teacher

Performance Responsibilities:

• Ability to communicate effectively with students.
• Ability to proficiently aid teacher in the performance of duties.
• Ability to communicate effectively, work well with staff and is a team player.
• Aid teacher in preparing classroom.
• Instruct students under teacher supervision.
• Follow lesson plans with fidelity.
• Supervise and support students during assigned duties both inside and outside of the classroom (i.e., cafeteria, playground, bus loading and unloading, field trips, restroom, off-site jobs, etc.
• Adhere to student IEP and 504 plans with fidelity.
• Aid in preparing students for arrival and dismissal.
• Maintain effective communication with Teacher of Record.
• Assist with the data collection for student academic and/or behavior goals.
• Any other related duties as may be assigned by the building principal and/or Teacher of Record.
• Empower students to achieve their maximum level of academic/behavioral independence based upon Teacher of Record directive.
• During a crisis situation, demonstrate the ability to professionally and effectively engage with and/or de-escalate students in their care.
• Follow assigned daily schedule in a timely fashion.

Personal and Professional Responsibilities:

• Nurture a positive relationship with super-ordinates, subordinates and peers.
• Demonstrate respect for super-ordinates, subordinates, peers, and students.
• Support corporation decisions and direction relative to matters of policy and administrative directives.
• Demonstrate ability to deal with sensitive issues in a tactful and professional manner.
• Address concerns and offer suggestions in an appropriate and confidential manner.
• Demonstrate punctuality/promptness (e.g., arrive on time, do not leave early, perform duties in a timely manner, etc.)
• Dress in a professional manner in accordance with position.

Other Responsibilities Could Include:

• Assist students with self-care skills (toileting, food prep, feeding, personal hygiene, etc.)
• Lift and transfer students.
• Use Crisis Prevention & Intervention training in accordance with CPI/Mandt Training procedures.
• Other duties as assigned by principal or designee.