Personal Care Assistant - Cross Country

Personal Care Assistant - Cross Country

We envision 6000+ Thinkers. Thinking is foundational to the development of self and society. It is the cornerstone of all creative ideas and problem-solving, new scientific discoveries, new products and services, individual and organizational learning, education, business success, interpersonal and intrapersonal communications, all social change and even democracy itself. Our vision is what we see. It motivates us. Our vision is audacious. Our mission is to engage, educate, and empower. We will strive to engage all students in the importance and relevance of thinking; to educate every learner to communicate, comprehend, and collaborate for understanding; and to empower all in the ICSD to achieve academic excellence.

Position Title: Personal Care Assistant - Cross Country

Brief Description: We are seeking a dedicated Personal Care Assistant (PCA) to support a special education student's participation on the varsity cross country team. The PCA will assist with safety, communication, task initiation, and transitions while promoting independence, positive peer interactions, and inclusion in all team activities.

Athletic Participation Support

• Accompany the student to practices, meets, and related team events.
• Assist with warm-ups, cool-downs, stretching, and other coach-directed activities.
• Help the student follow practice routines, pacing, and hydration schedules.

Safety and Health Monitoring

• Monitor the student during runs for signs of fatigue, overheating, dehydration, or injury.
• Ensure safe navigation of running routes and practice areas.
• Maintain awareness of medical or safety plans, including any emergency procedures.

Behavioral and Communication Support

• Use strategies recommended by the special education team to support attention, focus, and self-regulation.
• Facilitate understanding of coach instructions, rules, and expectations.
• Support positive social interactions and team engagement.

Logistical Assistance

• Support transitions to and from practice, meets, locker rooms, and transportation.
• Assist in organizing and managing personal belongings (e.g., running gear, water bottle, snacks).

Collaboration and Reporting

• Communicate regularly with the coach, special education staff, and caregivers about progress, needs, and observations.
• Follow individualized education program (IEP) accommodations and modifications related to extracurricular activities.
• Maintain confidentiality of student information in compliance with FERPA.

Location(s): Athletics

Anticipated Work Days: 9/15/2025-11/15/2025 Seasonal, part-time during cross country season (August through November), Hours include daily after-school practices (approximately 2 hours) and weekend competitions.

Posting Dates: 8/21/2025 - Until Filled

Number of Vacancies: 1

Hours per Week: 15

Work Schedule: Hours vary according to cross-country practice and meet schedules (afternoons, occasional evenings, and weekends during the season

Required Qualifications:

• The Ithaca City School District is committed to eliminating race, class, and disability as predictors of academic performance, co-curricular participation, and discipline. Qualified candidates will demonstrate a basic awareness of these commitments and a strong willingness to support these efforts.
• High school diploma or equivalent; experience in special education or youth sports preferred.
• Ability to run or walk alongside the student during practices and meets as needed.
• Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to motivate and encourage.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity (e.g., running, walking for extended periods).
• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.

Salary Range: $17.17/hr. in accordance with ESP Collective Bargaining Agreement

The Ithaca City School District does not unlawfully discriminate in employment on the basis of age, race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military status, veteran status, sex, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital status, familial status, domestic violence victim status, or other federal/state protected status.