About this role
Job Title: Special Education Instructional Aide - Resource/Inclusion Support Wage/Hour Status: Nonexempt Reports to: Principal and Teacher(s) Pay Grade: Clerical/Technical 1 Calendar: 187 Days Dept./School: Assigned Campus Date Revised: 06/20/2023 PRIMARY PURPOSE Help special and general education teachers provide for the instructional needs of students with disabilities in a general or special education setting. Assist in the implementation of classroom programs, including behavior management and instruction. Work under the general supervision of the principal and the immediate direction of a certified teacher. QUALIFICATIONS Education/Certification: • High school diploma or GED • Valid Texas educational aide certificate (prior to day one in the classroom) • One of the following: • Completion of two years of study at an institution of higher education (completion of 48 semester hours of college coursework) • Associate's degree or higher • Meet rigorous standard of quality as demonstrated through an approved course of study for paraprofessionals (Master Teacher courses) Special Knowledge/Skills: • Ability to work with children with special needs • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions • Ability to communicate effectively • Knowledge of general office equipment • Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain professional relationships in dealing with students, faculty, and the public Experience: • Some experience working with children preferred MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES Instructional Support 1. Help prepare instructional materials, including modifying and adapting classroom activities, assignments, and materials under the direction of the teacher to support and reinforce IEP objectives. 2. Instruct students and small groups of students and assist in the implementation of the Individualized Education Program (IEP), including the provision of accommodations, under the teacher's direction. 3. Work with individual students or small groups to develop fine motor skills and conduct instructional exercises assigned by the teacher or recommended by related service providers. 4. Help the teacher record and maintain academic, behavioral, and administrative data. Student Support 1. Assist students with physical needs, including transferring to and from wheelchairs or other adaptive equipment, lifting, and positioning. 2. Help manage on-task and disruptive behavior through redirection, prompting, and implementation of accommodations. 3. Learn and adapt to each student's special medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs. 4. Help support and monitor students throughout the school day, inside and outside the classroom. This may include lunch, field trips, bus duty, playground duty, and other outdoor activities. Other 1. Maintain confidentiality regarding student and coworker information as required by FERPA. 2. Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned. 3. Follow established schedules, routines, and approved lesson plans. 4. Demonstrate flexibility in assignment and schedule changes and continue to develop job-related skills. 5. Assist in maintaining an organized and clean environment. 6. Help with inventory, care, and maintenance of materials and equipment. 7. Maintain regular and consistent attendance. 8. Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES None. MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS Tools/Equipment Used: Laptop or desktop computer, copier, tablet device, audiovisual equipment, and software necessary for administrative and educational tasks. Posture: Frequent standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, pushing, and pulling. Motion: Frequent walking and reaching. Lifting: May assist with lifting, transferring, and positioning students and adaptive equipment as needed. Environment: Work inside and outside as assigned; possible exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases. Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress. This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.