Instructional Assistant Apprentice - 2026-2027

Tempe School District No.3 • Tempe, AZ

7h • Onsite

About The Position

This position involves assisting special education teachers with individualized instruction for students. The Instructional Assistant Apprentice will implement each child’s individualized education plan (I.E.P.), assist students with personal needs such as toiletry, feeding, and adaptive equipment, and monitor student behavior. The role is for the 2026-2027 school year.

Requirements

• Education and/or experience equivalent to a High School Diploma or GED
• State of Arizona Identity Verified (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Ability to obtain certification in Nonviolent Physical Crisis Intervention, CPR, and First Aid
• Special training in the use of adaptive equipment (may be required upon hire)
• Knowledge of special education student needs
• Knowledge of early childhood or adolescent learning methods and techniques
• Knowledge of District policies and procedures affecting assigned work
• Knowledge of District behavior modification program
• Knowledge of reading readiness skills and strategies
• Knowledge of testing procedures and State standards
• Skill working with special needs children
• Skill assisting teachers with student learning
• Skill monitoring and assisting students
• Skill establishing and maintaining effective working relationships
• Skill communicating orally and in writing
• Skill utilizing classroom supplies and equipment
• Skill in maintaining confidential files and records
• Skill in administering tests
• Ability to work with culturally diverse students

Nice To Haves

• An AA degree, or 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university, or a passing score on the ParaPro Assessment
• Three (3) years of experience working with special needs children
• Ability to speak fluent Spanish

Responsibilities

• Assists teacher with instructions, creation of classroom materials and classroom set up.
• Assist teacher in meeting individualized educational plan (I.E.P.) goals.
• Assist and accompany student for inclusion in regular classroom.
• Aid student with personal hygiene, including changing diapers and assisting with toilet training.
• Assist students in proper use of eating utensils and cafeteria behavior.
• Assist occupational therapist and speech therapist with teaching student as required.
• Provide a safe environment for special education students in which to learn.
• Works with students on a variety of subjects or in one-on-one or small group instruction.
• Monitor and supervise students in classroom, playground and cafeteria settings; utilize District behavior modification program as needed.
• Prepare instructional materials and visual aids; photo copies materials and documents.
• Prepare workstations or learning centers for children to work on daily lessons.
• Assist students with learning reading, writing and math skills.
• Assist in administering District and State tests.
• Assess student needs and modify lessons to provide appropriate help; document student progress.
• Collaborate with teachers to ensure lessons are appropriate for student.
• Organize and maintain teaching materials.
• Organize and file student work; plan for daily activities to meet specific needs of each child.
• May oversee class as required in teacher’s absence.
• Attend educational training as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED