Exceptional Children's Teacher Assistant

Macon County Schools•Franklin, NC

17h•Onsite

About The Position

The Exceptional Children’s (EC) Teacher Assistant supports the instructional program for students with disabilities under the direction of a licensed EC teacher. The role assists with implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), providing instructional and behavioral support, and maintaining a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment in alignment with North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) guidelines and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The assistant supports students in individual, small-group, and inclusion settings; helps with academic instruction, skill reinforcement, differentiated learning, behavioral interventions, assessments, and accommodations; and assists with documentation and records related to student progress and IEP goals. The role may also include personal care, lifting, positioning, mobility assistance, and supporting students during transitions, transportation, and community-based activities. The assistant collaborates with teachers, therapists, related service providers, staff, and families; maintains student confidentiality; and participates in relevant meetings and professional development.

Requirements

Meet one of the following education options: an associate degree or higher from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 GPA; completion of at least 48 semester hours of college coursework, including core courses, with a minimum 2.5 GPA; or enrollment in an Education Program.
Knowledge of child growth and development, particularly for students with disabilities.
Understanding of exceptionalities, including cognitive, behavioral, and physical needs.
Ability to implement instructional and behavioral strategies under teacher direction.
Strong organizational and data collection skills.
Ability to remain calm and responsive in challenging situations.
Effective communication and teamwork skills.
Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, 20 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds as needed.
Ability to lift, transfer, and assist students with mobility and personal care needs.
Ability to frequently stand, walk, bend, kneel, and engage actively.

Responsibilities

Assist the EC teacher with implementing IEPs and instructional plans.
Provide direct support to students with disabilities in individual, small-group, and inclusion settings.
Assist with academic instruction, skill reinforcement, and differentiated learning activities.
Support behavioral interventions and follow Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) as directed.
Collect data and document IEP goals and student progress; help maintain accurate records in compliance with IDEA, NCDPI, and district requirements.
Assist with students’ personal care needs, such as toileting, feeding, and mobility, as required.
Assist with lifting, positioning, and physical support of students as needed.
Ensure student safety, including during transitions, transportation, and community-based activities.
Support classroom management and promote positive student behavior.
Assist with administering and monitoring assessments and accommodations.
Modify materials and adapt instruction under teacher supervision.
Collaborate with general education teachers, therapists, and related service providers.
Assist students in accessing the general education curriculum when appropriate.
Maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with FERPA and IDEA.
Build and maintain positive relationships with students, staff, and families.
Participate in IEP meetings when appropriate and as directed.
Participate in required professional development and training, including safety procedures such as CPI and de-escalation techniques.
Follow Macon County Schools policies, procedures, and expectations.
Demonstrate initiative, flexibility, and professionalism in supporting diverse student needs.
Perform other duties as assigned by school administration.