SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHING ASSISTANT

Special Education Teacher Assistant

Help meet physical and instructional needs of individual students with disabilities inside and outside the classroom. Assist with the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEP), including self-help, behavior management, and instruction programs. Work under general supervision of the principal and immediate direction of a certified teacher.

Education/Certification: High school diploma or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate Have met formal academic assessment, associate's degree, or two years of study at an institution of higher learning* Valid Texas educational aide certificate

Special Knowledge/Skills: Ability to work with children with disabilities Ability to follow verbal and written instructions Ability to communicate effectively Experience: Two years experience working with children

Student Management Help meet the individual needs of student(s) including transferring to and from wheelchairs; lifting and positioning; interpreting instructions; and assisting with physical needs and personal care such as feeding, bathroom needs, and personal hygiene. Help manage the behavior of assigned student(s). This includes intervening in crisis situations and restraining disruptive or dangerous students as needed. Recognize differences in student's special medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs and adapt methods and interaction accordingly. Work with assigned student(s) or small groups to develop motor skills and conduct instructional exercises assigned by the teacher. Assist assigned students throughout the school day, inside and outside the classroom. This includes lunchroom, bus, and playground duty. Keep teachers informed of special needs or problems of assigned student(s).

Other Maintain confidentiality. Participate in professional development programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned. Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment; other specialized and adaptive equipment used by students Posture: Frequent standing; kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting Motion: Frequent walking and reaching Lifting: Frequent light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); Occasional heavy lifting (45 pounds or over) and positioning or students with physical disabilities, controlling behavior through physical restraint, assisting non ambulatory students, and lifting and moving adaptive and other classroom equipment Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; exposure to biological hazards (bacteria, communicable diseases) Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress *Required by Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) for aides who are providing instructional support in Title I, Part A program.