Classroom Assistant - Wilson Elementary School

Classroom Assistant

This class is accountable assisting certified staff with direct instructional support and the general supervision and management of students. Guidelines for Class Use:
This job class assists teachers by performing nonprofessional duties so teachers may devote more of their time to professional tasks. Assistants organize and lead children in educational activities as directed by the teacher. Employees work close with the teacher and children to ensure that the programmed activities are carried out, and that a productive relationship is maintained between the teacher and the students.

Assistants will be trained in specific tasks and work under the supervision of the teacher, but will not perform professional teaching duties.

Minimum

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Education and Experience:
  
  One (1) year of experience working with young children in group activities. Preferred:
  Bachelors or Associate's Degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 12 credits in early childhood education (EDE) or Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) credential with a minimum of 12 credits in early childhood education (ECE) and Desired:
  Experience in an urban school district and/or a multi-cultural environment.
• Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  
  Knowledge of and respect for the diverse backgrounds (cultural, linguistic, environmental) of students and how these characteristics affect the student's life and learning;
  Knowledge of relevant laws, rules, regulations, and Board policies and District procedures;
  Knowledge of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Scientific Research Based Interventions (SRBI);
  Knowledge of Social Emotional Learning (SEL);
  Knowledge of the similarities and differences between cognitive, communicative, physical, social, and emotional needs of students and the factors that influence these different needs;
  Oral and written communication skills;
  Interpersonal and social skills;
  Ability to apply the principles of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Scientific Research Based Interventions (SRBI);
  Ability to assist and reinforce elements that support a safe, healthy, and effective teaching and learning environment;
  Ability to assist in adapting instructional strategies and materials according to the needs of the student, under the direction of a teacher;
  Ability to be sensitive and respectful in communications regarding all children and families, regardless of differences in cultural heritage, lifestyle, values, and home environment;
  Ability to collect and record performance data on students under the direction of a licensed teacher, while respecting student confidentiality and the laws regarding ethical practices of assessment;
  Ability to collect objective and accurate information on student behavior to be provided to licensed professionals, as appropriate and directed by a licensed teacher;
  Ability to draw on knowledge and resources regarding a variety of developmental and age-appropriate instructional methods, techniques, and materials when supporting the instruction of the licensed teacher;
  Ability to effectively employ a variety of strategies that reinforce positive behavior;
  Ability to establish and maintain rapport with students;
  Ability to follow oral and written direction of licensed teachers, seeking clarification as needed;
  Ability to participate as a member of the educational team when requested to attend conferences with families or primary caregivers, with an understanding of some of the concerns of parents;
  Ability to prepare and organize materials to support teaching and learning, as directed by a licensed teacher;
  Ability to reinforce the development of student social skills by using appropriate strategies to modify the environment;
  Ability to use ethical practices for confidential communication about students;
  Ability to use strategies that promote the student's independence;
  Ability to utilize learning styles theory in supporting instructional practices;
  Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Essential Functions:

• Assists in assessing student progress as directed, including proctoring the administration of tests and maintaining confidential records
• Assists in maintaining the security of records, materials and equipment
• Assists students with physical needs (hygiene, toileting, eating, dressing) as needed
• Assists teacher in meeting with parents and displays children's work.
• Assists teacher with student supervision as assigned
• Assists the teacher in observing, recording, and charting behavior
• Assists the teacher in preparing for changing curriculum to meet the needs of students with diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, learning styles and special needs
• Assists the teacher in the enforcement of classroom rules and the maintenance of appropriate records
• Assists the teacher with crisis problems and behavior management
• Assists the teacher(s) in preparing materials and equipment for direct…