INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT, ESS SCHOOL YEAR (26869)

Position Type:
Classified Instructional Support/INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT/ESS

Date Posted:
6/1/2026

Location:
DESIDERATA

Closing Date:
06/12/2026


Equal Opportunity Employer

INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT, ESS

DEPARTMENT: Exceptional Student Services

SALARY SCHEDULE: Education Support Professional

LOCATION: Assigned Schools

WORK YEAR: 9 Months

GRADE 4:
STARTING HOURLY RATE: $18.59 - $19.44 (PLACEMENT DEPENDS ON SIMILAR EXPERIENCE HELD AND EDUCATION)

The Phoenix Union High School District is proud to serve a diverse population of 24,000 students and 3,400 employees in Arizona's capital city. With a portfolio of comprehensive schools, small specialty schools, support schools, micro schools, magnet programs, and extensive Career & Technical Education (CTE) offerings, PXU's schools of opportunity welcome, love, and inspire all students to go places and do things that matter.

SUMMARY:

Under the leadership of the teacher or Instructional Leader, the Instructional Assistant, ESS works directly with students to aid in daily educational learning and teaching and extra-curricular activities. Supports and assists in preparing instructional materials and implementing lesson plans. Monitors students during lessons and provides additional individual or small group instruction as needed.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Provides the support services required in implementing the instructional plan as prescribed by the ESS teacher or Instructional Leader. Ensures students are following teacher's progress during lessons.
2. Monitors ESS students in the classroom and during non-instructional activities including lunch, bus arrival/departure, after-school and in-school detention. Escorts students between classes and to other designated areas as required.
3. Researches information for curriculum, implements and prepares lessons under the direction of a teacher.
4. Assists teachers with behavior management techniques including implementing positive reinforcement programs; refocuses students not paying attention during lessons; answers individual questions.
5. Helps individual student and small group activities, assignments and studies; provides additional explanations or tutoring for individuals and small groups as requested by teacher.
6. Assists teachers with preparing materials for lessons; ensures all necessary supplies and equipment are available and used properly by students.
7. Maintains individual student folders and student records; administers; collects data on student performance and types correspondence reporting student progress or problems.
8. Completes and submits daily and weekly ESS related documents required by the program and/or the state.
9. Participates in related programs (e.g., Medicaid in the Public Schools reimbursement program (MIPS).
10. Administers medications, under doctor's orders and with parental permission.
11. Supports the relationship between the Phoenix Union High School District and the public by demonstrating courteous and professional behavior when interacting with students, parents, visitors, and school staff; maintains absolute confidentiality of work-related issues, client records, and school information; follows Governing Board Policies; performs all other related duties as required or assigned.

The above essential functions are intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities and not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education, Training, and Experience Guidelines:

High School diploma or GED equivalent; AND some previous classroom experience; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Meets all federal and state educational and testing requirements.

License and Certification Requirements:

Possess a current Red Cross Firs Aid Certificate and CPR certificate at time of employment or within the first sixty (60) days of employment.
Possess an active Arizona Department of Public Safety IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card or obtain one within the first 90 workdays of employment.

IDEAL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE THE FOLLOWING SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to understand and related to special education students, especially students with emotional disabilities and behavior disorders.
• Ability to prepare and implement concise lesson plans. Basic knowledge of the subject that is being taught in the program.
• Skill in maintaining accurate records; researching, compiling data and writing professional reports, presentations, and technical documents.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, as well as follow verbal and written instructions and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Skill with computer hardware and software, audio-visual and other instructional equipment.
• Skill in understanding, explaining, and applying relevant rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to provide excellent customer experiences, including but not limited to interacting tactfully and courteously with the public.
• Commitment to create and sustain a thriving learning and working environment for students and staff.
• Ability to use initiative within organizational policies, procedures and guidelines.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in a classroom.

WHY WORK AT PXU

The Phoenix Union High School District is one of the state's largest employers. Our 3,400 education professionals are committed to providing an excellent learning environment for our students while enjoying an inspiring work environment.

• Highly Competitive Pay

• Comprehensive Employee Benefits

• Participation in Arizona State Retirement System

• Education Loan Forgiveness (If eligible)

• Vacation and Personal Leave Plans (for eligible positions)

• Paid Winter and Spring Breaks

The Board is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in relation to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability or sexual orientation, as well as gender identity, gender expression and immigration status. This policy will prevail in all matters concerning staff members, students, the public, educational programs and services, and individuals with whom the Board does business.

DIVISION:

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

SUPERVISION GIVEN:

Teaching & Learning

Principal or Designee

Director, Exceptional Student Services or Designee

None

Action

Prepared by:

Reviewed by:

Effective Date

Revised

PSPC

TC/CEA/Talent

07/01/2021