MS Special Education Instructional Assistant

Special Education One-to-One Instructional Assistant

Location:

Middle School

Reports To:

Building Principal in Partnership with the Special Education Department

Subordinates:
None

Position Type:
Full-Time, Exempt Salary Range:
School Year Instructional Assistant Salary Scale, $26,920 - $58,315

Job Description:

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate One-to-One Instructional Assistant to support students with specific educational needs. This position involves providing individualized support to students, following the classroom teacher's instructions, and assisting in the development and implementation of academic and behavioral support strategies. The successful candidate will work closely with students in both general education and special education settings, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.

This position is directly tied to the specific needs of enrolled students. If a student is no longer enrolled and no additional needs arise, employment for this position will be terminated.

This job description outlines the core duties and responsibilities for the position. It is not meant to be an exhaustive list of all tasks that may be required in this role. The ideal candidate should be flexible and adaptable in meeting the evolving needs of the District.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Provide one-to-one support to students with various disabilities and learning needs, ensuring access to the curriculum and classroom activities.
• Assist students with both academic tasks and behavioral/social challenges, adhering to prescribed instructional methods.
• Follow the specific accommodations and modifications outlined in students' IEPs and 504 Plans.
• Support students in organizing their academic materials, completing assignments, and maintaining effective schedules.
• Collaborate with the classroom teacher and/or Special Education teacher to implement lesson plans, develop materials, and ensure effective instruction.
• Facilitate behavioral support, implementing behavioral plans to support students' success in the classroom, including managing non-compliance, task completion, and social interactions.
• Provide support in both individual and small group settings, with flexibility in assigned tasks and students.
• Assist students during lunch, recess, specials, and other non-classroom times to ensure continuous support and safety.
• Monitor and document student progress and collect data related to academic performance, behavior, and incidents (accidents, discipline, etc.).
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.
• Provide classroom coverage when necessary, ensuring that students' learning is uninterrupted.
• Support students with technology and other classroom resources to enhance learning.
• Implement carryover of skills and instructional strategies as designed by related service providers (e.g., Speech, OT, PT).
• Assist students with daily routines, including arrival, dismissal, and transitioning between activities.
• Facilitate the development of independent skills in students, promoting self-sufficiency across the school day.
• Participate in meetings and consultations related to students' progress and needs.
• Assist students with organization of materials, note-taking, and scribing as needed.
• Follow school policies and collaborate with colleagues to address challenges and develop effective solutions.
• Support the facilitation of standardized assessments (e.g., MCAS) with appropriate accommodations.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal or Director of Special Education.

Required Skills, Experience, and

Competencies:

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional qualifications in education or related field preferred.
• Minimum of one year of experience in a similar role or working with children in an educational setting.
• Knowledge of academic support strategies and special education practices.
• Ability to work effectively with students of varying needs, including those with physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, and parents.
• Ability to adapt to a dynamic environment and work collaboratively with a team.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Commitment to the core values of the school and a passion for supporting all students' success.

Additional Requirements:

• Background check and fingerprinting as required by Massachusetts state regulations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must be able to lift, move, or assist students when necessary.
• Completion of any required professional development or certifications as mandated by the District.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• The role requires frequent communication, standing, walking, sitting, reaching, stooping, kneeling, and occasional lifting of students or objects.
• Ability to work in a busy, noisy, and high-pressure environment, maintaining focus on student safety and well-being.
• Exposure to…