Instructional Assistant - Preschool

Tempe School District No.3•Tempe, AZ

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Instructional Assistant - Preschool supports teachers and classroom activities. The role includes supervising students in settings such as classrooms, cafeterias, hallways, and playgrounds, and assisting students with reading, mathematics, and other subjects. The position is in an elementary school department, works 189 days per year, and reports to a Teacher and/or Principal. The role does not supervise other employees. The assistant helps prepare and organize classroom materials, workstations, and learning centers; provides individual and small-group instruction; monitors and supports students; and assists with district and state testing. The assistant may assess and document student progress, adapt lessons with teachers to address student needs, organize student work and records, and oversee a class when required in a teacher’s absence. Educational training is required as assigned. The position is generally in an indoor classroom, but may involve outdoor work and exposure to infectious disease. Physical demands may include climbing, stooping, standing, walking, lifting, keyboarding, talking, hearing, and eyestrain with repetitive motions. Infrequently, the role may require lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying furniture, equipment, and supplies weighing up to 30–35 pounds.

Requirements

Education and/or experience equivalent to a High School Diploma or GED.
State of Arizona Identity Verified (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card.
Evidence of a TB skin test performed within one year of hire; other immunizations may be required at hire.
Food Handler’s Card.
Knowledge of early childhood or adolescent learning methods and techniques.
Knowledge of District policies and procedures affecting assigned work.
Knowledge of the District behavior modification program.
Knowledge of reading readiness skills and strategies.
Knowledge of testing procedures and State standards.
Skills in assisting teachers with student learning; monitoring and assisting students; establishing and maintaining effective working relationships; oral and written communication; using classroom supplies and equipment; maintaining confidential files and records; and administering tests.
Ability to work with culturally diverse students.

Nice To Haves

An Associate degree or 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university, or a passing score on the ParaPro Assessment.
One year of experience working with children.
Ability to speak fluent Spanish, preferred at some sites.

Responsibilities

Assist teachers with instruction, classroom-material creation, and classroom setup.
Work with students on a variety of subjects through individual or small-group instruction.
Monitor and supervise students in classrooms, playgrounds, and cafeterias, and use the District behavior modification program as needed.
Prepare instructional materials and visual aids, and photocopy materials and documents.
Prepare workstations or learning centers for daily lessons.
Assist students with reading, writing, and math skills.
Assist in administering District and State tests.
Assess student needs, modify lessons to provide appropriate help, and document student progress.
Collaborate with teachers to ensure lessons are appropriate for students.
Organize and maintain teaching materials.
Organize and file student work, and plan daily activities to meet each child’s specific needs.
Oversee a class as required in a teacher’s absence.
Attend educational training as required.
Perform other duties as assigned.