Educational Assistant (EA IV) - Significant Support Needs (SSN) Program

Douglas County School District•Saginaw Charter Township, MI

1d•$20 - $31•Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction and guidance of a licensed special education teacher and staff, the Educational Assistant provides specialized, intensive, individualized support to students with Significant Support Needs (SSN), including students with moderate to severe cognitive disabilities and possible physical, health, or medical impairments. As a member of the special education team, the position supports functional, academic, and life-skills instruction; assists with personal care and medical needs; and promotes student safety, engagement, and independence in a structured, supportive learning environment. The role also develops and promotes good community relations among community members and school clientele. The position is based at Arrowwood Elementary, is scheduled for 37.5 hours per week across approximately 180 work days per year, and is listed as regular. The position is open until filled, but no later than January 19, 2027. The hourly hire range is $19.84–$25.20, with a full salary range of $19.84–$30.55; salary amounts are based on a full-time 1.0 FTE and are prorated where applicable. The role involves occasional lifting of 40–70 pounds; frequent bending, standing, sitting, and walking; occasional reaching, kneeling, squatting, and standing; and the ability to run short distances. The environment has typical classroom noise and is mostly clean and comfortable. General classroom and office equipment is used.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions for implementing IEPs, health plans, and behavior protocols with high fidelity.
Strong commitment to student dignity and safety and to promoting each student’s maximum level of independence.
Willingness and ability to assist students with personal care, toileting, and mobility, including lifting and transferring with appropriate training and assistance.
Ability to lift 40–70 pounds occasionally.
Ability to bend, stand, sit, and walk frequently; reach, kneel, squat, and stand occasionally; and run short distances.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children or young adults with significant cognitive or physical disabilities, or complex medical needs.

Responsibilities

Assist with student positioning, transfers, and mobility using specialized equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, lifts, and standers.
Monitor and provide delegated health care procedures, which may include seizure monitoring, emergency medication administration, or basic first aid, according to required training and protocols.
Maintain a safe and clean learning environment, including cleaning and sanitizing equipment and materials used for personal care and instruction.
Closely supervise students during transitions, outdoor activities, and mealtimes to ensure safety and prevent injury.
Support implementation of students’ IEP goals in collaboration with the Special Education Teacher, including academic, functional, communication, social, and vocational goals.
Support students with SSN across settings, including general education environments, by facilitating accommodations, reinforcing academic instruction, and implementing behavior management strategies.
Assist students with daily living and functional skills, including dressing, feeding, G-tube feeding when trained and delegated, toileting, diapering, and personal hygiene.
Assist students in using communication methods such as sign language, picture exchange systems (PECS), and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices.
Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.
Develop and promote good community relations among community members and school clientele.