Instructional Assistant, Ess

Position Overview

Instructional Assistant, Exceptional Student Services (ESS) for the Phoenix Union High School District. Work year: 9 months, assigned to schools. Starting hourly rate $18.59–$19.44.

Location:

assigned schools. Work environment: classroom, handling daily instructional and administrative duties.

• Provide support services required to implement the instructional plan as prescribed by the ESS teacher or Instructional Leader.
• Monitor ESS students during lessons and non‑instructional activities including lunch, bus arrival/departure, after‑school and in‑school detention.
• Escort students between classes and to other designated areas as required.
• Research curriculum information, assist in implementing lessons, and prepare materials under teacher direction.
• Assist teachers with behavior management techniques, including positive reinforcement programs, refocusing students, and answering individual questions.
• Help students and small groups with assignments and studies; provide additional explanations or tutoring as requested by the teacher.
• Assist teachers in preparing lesson materials and ensuring supplies and equipment are available and used properly.
• Maintain individual student folders and records, administer and collect data on student performance, and report progress or problems in correspondence.
• Complete and submit daily and weekly ESS‑related documents required by the program or the state.
• Participate in related programs such as Medicaid in the Public Schools reimbursement program (MIPS).
• Administer medications under doctor’s orders and with parental permission.
• Demonstrate courteous and professional behavior when interacting with students, parents, visitors, and school staff; maintain confidentiality of work‑related issues and client records; follow Board Policies and perform related duties as required.

Education:

High School diploma or GED equivalent and some previous classroom experience; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Meets all federal and state educational and testing requirements.

• Current Red Cross First Aid Certificate and CPR certificate at time of employment or within the first 60 days of employment.
• Active Arizona Department of Public Safety IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card, or obtain one within the first 90 workdays of employment.

• Understanding and relating to special education students, especially those with emotional disabilities and behavior disorders.
• Ability to prepare and implement concise lesson plans; basic knowledge of the subject taught.
• Skill in maintaining accurate records, researching, compiling data, and writing professional reports and presentations.
• Effective verbal and written communication; ability to follow instructions and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Proficiency with computer hardware and software, audiovisual and other instructional equipment.
• Understanding of relevant rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Customer‑service skills for interacting tactfully and courteously with the public.
• Commitment to creating and sustaining a thriving learning and working environment.
• Initiative within organizational policies, procedures and guidelines.

Work performed in a classroom setting, requiring frequent standing, walking, and interaction with students and staff.

• Highly competitive pay.
• Education loan forgiveness (if eligible).
• Vacation and personal leave plans (for eligible positions).
• Paid winter and spring breaks.

The Board is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in relation to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and immigration status. This policy applies to all matters concerning staff members, students, public, educational programs, services, and individuals with whom the Board does business.