S26801 Educational Assistant Substitute

Lethbridge School Division•Lethbridge, AB

88d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lethbridge School Division has openings for Educational Assistants, primarily for their Substitute list, though specific positions may also be available. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, with priority given to contracted positions. The Division is committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment that embraces diversity and operates in a dynamic, innovative, and fast-paced setting. They are seeking an empathetic, compassionate, optimistic, patient, and adaptable individual to support student success by providing personalized support and creating a positive, engaging educational experience. Educational Assistants work with students requiring targeted and specialized supports and services to effectively participate in their learning community. Tasks are varied and depend on student needs, including assisting with and adapting academic tasks, implementing strategies for socially appropriate behaviors, attending to physical and medical needs, and monitoring progress. Educational Assistants collaborate within the school community, sharing information, reflecting on strategy effectiveness, and suggesting modifications. While working under the direction of teachers, they focus on identified students and are adept at building trust and rapport. They are an integral part of a dynamic and collaborative team supporting students with behavioral challenges, complex physical disabilities, developmental delays, and may assume other duties as required.

Requirements

Training and/or experience working with students with severe behaviour challenges is necessary.
Understanding of neurodiversity, such as ASD, ODD, FASD, ADHD and/or other behavioural disabilities.
Willingness to provide personal care, lifting, and toileting support for students.
Ability to create rapport with all students and staff.
Ability to adapt to dynamic learning environments.
Self-directed, flexible, and able to find creative ways to connect with and regulate students.
Strong communication skills.
Show initiative in solving problems and creating opportunities for student success.
Proof of Grade 12 or Canadian Adult Educational Credential (CAEC) as issued by an accredited Canadian Province or a Canadian post-secondary certificate or diploma in a related field such as Educational Assistant, Early Childhood Education and Child & Youth Care.
If education obtained outside of Canada, a copy of Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) or International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) confirming completion of high school or post secondary equivalencies.
A police information check: including Vulnerable Sector Check from Police Services or an RCMP detachment that does not have any charges or convictions.
A satisfactory Intervention Record Check from South Region Alberta Child and Family Services.
Proof of photo identification (valid driver’s license, provincial identification card, valid passport or Nexus card).
Documentation of a valid Social Insurance Number in the employee’s legal name.

Nice To Haves

Proven experience executing Positive Behavior Support Plans.
Training and/or experience supporting students with Occupational Therapy/Physical Therapy and/or Speech-Language acquisition needs.
Strong understanding of Trauma Informed practice, resiliency, building connections, self-regulation supports and strategies, and conflict resolution skills.
Willingness to participate in ongoing professional learning.
Working knowledge within early literacy and the speech and language acquisition process.
Experience in supporting programs for students in their early years of development.
Training and/or experience in sign language, Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) and/or Hanen (Learning Language and Loving It/ABC & Beyond).
Specialized training such as Supporting Individuals through Valued Attachments (SIVA).

Responsibilities

Work as a team to support students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 with varying needs, including behavioral challenges, complex physical disabilities, developmental delays, and severe medical needs.
Ensure all students’ safety at all times.
Implement individualized programs.
Carry out Positive Behaviour Support Plans as developed by the student’s Learning Team.
Assist with and adapt academic tasks.
Implement strategies intended to support socially appropriate behaviours.
Attend to physical needs as well as medical needs specific to individual students.
Monitor progress.
Share information, reflect on effectiveness of strategies, and suggest modifications to existing or novel strategies to maximize student success.
Develop trust and rapport with students and staff.
Assume other duties, as required.
Provide personal care, lifting, and toileting support for students.
Participate in community activities such as swimming and skating.
Support students with limited experience within formal school settings.
Support students with English as an additional language.