Special Education Teaching Assistant II

Special Education Assistant

Salary: $16.92 per hour - commensurate with experience

Terms/Benefits:  School Year 10 month position - 7.50 hours per day Major medical, hospitalization, dental, income protection, and term life

General Information:
Assists SEAS classroom teacher in the implementation of classroom academics, self-sufficiency skills, motor skills, communication skills, social/emotional skills, and transition skills. Emphasis is placed on assisting special education students to meet the pre-requisite skills for educational success, performed under close to moderate supervision.

Qualifications & Requirements:

A high school diploma or equivalent. Additional training in child psychology, classroom management, special education needs, or other related areas of study is desired. Must possess an Associate's degree or 60 semester hours of coursework documented on an official transcript from an accredited institution of higher education; or pass a formal state assessment such as Master Teacher's Para Educator Learning Network (Parapro test paid for and administered by the district).

General clerical experience desired. First aid and CPR training required. Demonstrated general proficiency in computer programs including Microsoft Excel and Word.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Skills in human relations. Knowledge and understanding of students with special needs. Ability to maintain discipline standards. Willingness to attend conferences, in-service workshops, and classes to upgrade and update skills. General clerical skills, primarily typing, filing, and data entry. Ability to apply common sense understanding to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of situations.

Ability to work cooperatively and courteously with staff, students, parents and community members. Knowledge of applicable Federal and State laws, district procedures and Board policies. Ability to handle confrontation and conflict without an emotional response. Must possess time management skills.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Assists and supports teachers in classroom planning, preparation, implementation and management. Assists in formulation and implementation of individual student objectives and goals identified in the program with specific focus and attention given to goals in the area of self-sufficiency. Assists with documentation associated with individualized programs. Assists in special needs areas including wheelchair transfers, toileting, diaper changing, tracheotomy suctioning, tube feedings, catheterization, augmentative communication and behavior management.

Monitors/documents medication administration and side effects, medical interventions, breathing treatments, etc. Shadows and supports students into mainstream and/or community environments. Meets buses for drop-off and pick-up of students. Assists in cafeteria and playground supervision. Participates in total school functions and activities. May accompany the teacher on home visits or homebound instruction. Implements specific therapy exercises, under the direction of a licensed therapist.