Whittier Elementary - Special Education Assistant ; Focus - FTE

Special Education Assistant – ISE-203

The role of Special Education Assistant/ISE-203 is to assist in the supervision, care, and instruction of special needs students in both regular and self‑contained classrooms. Duties include implementing instructional plans, monitoring student behavior, providing supportive care, and attending IEP meetings.

• Adapt classroom activities, assignments, and materials under the direction of the teacher to provide all students with participation opportunities.
• Administer a variety of materials and assignments (tests, homework, grades, folders) to assist the teacher in evaluating progress and organizing individual needs.
• Administer first aid and medical assistance as required.
• Assist students with medical or physical limitations in addressing personal care needs.
• Attend meetings and in‑service presentations (first aid, CPR, emergency procedures, etc.) to acquire and convey job‑related information.
• Confer regularly with the special education and/or mainstream teacher to evaluate student progress and implement IEP objectives.
• Communicate with teachers and/or parents (phone calls, e‑mails, parent‑teacher meetings, progress notebooks) to provide information on student progress per the IEP.
• Direct and implement behavioral plans for students with behavior disorders to meet special education needs and ensure safety.
• Instruct students in individual and group settings (academic subjects, social skills, daily living skills) to reinforce objectives and achieve program goals.
• Maintain instructional materials and student files to ensure availability and reliable information.
• Monitor students during assigned periods in various environments (rest rooms, playgrounds, hallways, cafeteria, etc.) to provide a safe and positive learning environment.

• Perform other related duties as assigned to support efficient functioning of the work unit.

Reports to the building principal when assigned through staffing formulas or to the assigned Special Education supervisor when based centrally.

• Basic math calculations (fractions, percentages, ratios); reading manuals; writing documents; presenting information.
• Instructional procedures and practices, age‑appropriate student activities, safety practices, conflict resolution, stages of child development and behavior.

• Perform multiple non‑technical tasks with potential need to upgrade skills as job conditions change.
• Adhere to safety practices; operate standard office equipment and relevant software; prepare and maintain accurate records.

• Gather and collate data; work with standardized processes; operate job‑related equipment.
• Maintain flexibility working with diverse individuals and in varied circumstances.
• Problem‑solve to identify issues and create action plans.
• Adapt to changing work priorities, communicate with diverse groups, maintain confidentiality, work as part of a team, and manage constant interruptions.
• Use a personal computer; basic signing may be required.

Work under direct supervision using standardized procedures, lead and coordinate others, and operate within a defined budget.

Physical demands include occasional lifting up to 50 pounds, frequent stooping, kneeling, crawling, and handling medically fragile children. The role requires approximately 45% sitting, 25% walking, and 30% standing in a clean, healthy environment.

High school diploma or equivalent and at least one of the following: qualified score on the Education Testing Service para educator assessment; an associate degree or higher; 72 quarter credits (48 semester credits) at the 100 level or higher; or completion of an apprenticeship in a program registered with the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council.

None specified.

Experience working with children.

Valid State of Washington driver’s license or evidence of equivalent mobility.

Secure Training, CPR, First Aid.

Criminal Justice fingerprint background clearance.

Benefits are administered by the Washington State Healthcare Authority under the School Employees Benefits Board. Eligibility is determined by hours worked during the school year; employees scheduled for 630 hours or more per year are eligible.