About this role
TOWN OF NEW SHOREHAM JOB DESCRIPTION JOB DESCRIPTION:Teacher Assistant / Registered Behavior Technician DEPARTMENT:Block Island School SUPERVISOR:Special Education Director and/or Principal SALARY/HOURS/BENEFITS: Class E: $24.34; 5 days per week, 35 hours per week, school vacations excluded. Benefits per the Town Employees’ Contract. POSITION SUMMARY:The Paraprofessional – Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) provides direct behavioral and instructional support to students under the supervision of a certified special educator. The RBT implements behavior intervention plans, supports students with social-emotional and academic needs, supports students’ use of an AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) device, collects behavioral data, and assists in creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. This role requires collaboration with school staff and families to support student growth and success across educational settings. Must be able to provide academic assistance to students with special needs and/or resource to regular education students. Must be able to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team in a classroom setting. Must be able to follow a developmentally appropriate program. MINIMUM/REQUIRED QUALIFICATION:Must be certified as an RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) or willing to be certified. Must have completed at least two years of study at an institution of higher education or obtained an associate’s (or higher) degree. Exhibit enthusiasm and energy towards children, staff, and school goals. Teacher Assistant certification as mandated by Rhode Island Department of Education. Appointment will be probationary until certification is completed. RESPONSIBILITIES:Perform under the Special Education teacher's supervision and direction in all areas of school activities and instruction. He/she shall be expected to: -Follow the Teacher's direction in maintaining classroom structure and behavioral control. -Assist the teacher in academic instruction as identified in and prescribed by the student's IEP. -Assist in inclusion activities supporting students in the general education setting. -Assist in non-academic instruction carried out by itinerant teachers. -Assist in correcting students' assignments, editing or clarifying (simplifying), enlarging general education worksheets as modified by the Special Education teacher. -Assist in carrying out programs designed by the physical and/or occupational and/or speech therapists. Assistants shall not be required to perform therapy without prior training from the therapist, and they shall not perform any therapy without a signed written directive from the Office of the Director of Special Education. -Assist physically challenged children in the use of adaptive equipment, if appropriately trained. -Supervise students before school, during recess and lunch periods, leaving and entering transportation vehicles, classrooms and buildings, and at dismissal. -Supervise students during field trips. -Administer the school rules and regulations governing student behavior. -Perform any and all/other related duties assigned by the building principal or the Director of Special Education. -Assist in toileting activities and other areas of self-care and independent living skills. In addition: -Student Support and Behavior Intervention -Implement individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and support strategies developed by the educational team and BCBA. -Provide one-to-one and small-group behavioral and instructional support to students. -Utilize evidence-based behavior management strategies grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). -Reinforce positive behaviors and support students in developing social, emotional, communication, and self-regulation skills. -Assist students during transitions and throughout classroom routines and activities. -Support student engagement in academic, social, and community-based activities. -Data Collection and Documentation -Collect, record, and maintain accurate behavioral and instructional data. -Monitor student progress and communicate observations to supervising staff. -Maintain confidentiality of student records and information. -Assist in documenting student progress and behavioral trends. -Collaboration and Communication -Work collaboratively with teachers, related service providers, and administrators. -Participate in team meetings, training, and professional development opportunities. -Communicate effectively with staff regarding student needs and progress. -Assist with implementing consistent behavioral supports across environments. Classroom and Safety Responsibilities: -Support the implementation of classroom routines and structures. -Assist with supervision during instructional and non-instructional periods, including lunch, recess, field trips, and transitions. -Follow district policies and procedures related to student safety and crisis response. -Implement de-escalation and crisis prevention strategies as trained. -Assist students with personal care needs when required. Other Responsibilities: -Perform other duties as assigned by the administration consistent with the scope of the position. SPECIAL JOB DIMENSIONS:Candidate for employment shall undergo an employment background check and criminal records check. Candidate is expected to participate in training program for teacher assistants. Applications and Functional Job Description are available at the able at the Block Island School office. Applications accepted until position is filled. WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER