Instructional Assistant Senior - Special Needs SEALS - Fuller Elementary

Tempe School District No.3•Tempe, AZ

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Instructional Assistant Senior supports special education teachers with individualized instruction and implementation of students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The role assists students with personal care, including toileting and feeding, supports the use of adaptive equipment, and monitors student behavior. The position works with students individually and in small groups, supports classroom inclusion, and helps maintain a safe learning environment. The assistant prepares instructional materials and workstations, helps students build academic skills, supports testing and documentation of student progress, and collaborates with teachers and therapists. The position is based generally in an indoor classroom, with exposure to infectious disease and outside elements. The work year is 189 days.

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.
Knowledge of special education student needs, learning methods, District policies and behavior modification program, reading readiness, and testing procedures and State standards.
Skills in supporting special education students and teachers, monitoring and assisting students, communicating orally and in writing, using classroom supplies and equipment, maintaining confidential records, and administering tests.
Ability to work with culturally diverse students.
Ability to perform physical activities that may include climbing, stooping, standing, walking, lifting, keyboarding, talking, hearing, eyestrain, and repetitive motions. May infrequently lift, push, pull, or carry items weighing up to 30–35 pounds, with assistance from other personnel as needed.

Nice To Haves

An associate degree, 60 college credit hours from an accredited college or university, or a passing score on the ParaPro Assessment (preferred).
Three years of experience working with children with special needs (preferred).
Fluent Spanish (preferred).
Special training in the use of adaptive equipment may be required upon hire.

Responsibilities

Assist teachers with instruction, classroom-material creation, and classroom setup.
Help students meet their IEP goals and accompany them for inclusion in regular classrooms.
Assist students with personal hygiene, including diaper changes and toilet training.
Help students use eating utensils appropriately and follow cafeteria behavior expectations.
Assist occupational and speech therapists with teaching students as required.
Provide a safe learning environment for special education students.
Work with students across subjects in one-on-one or small-group instruction.
Monitor and supervise students in classrooms, playgrounds, and cafeterias, using the District behavior modification program as needed.
Prepare instructional materials and visual aids, photocopy materials, and prepare workstations or learning centers.
Help students develop reading, writing, and math skills.
Assist with administering District and State tests.
Assess student needs, adapt lessons, and document student progress.
Collaborate with teachers to ensure lessons are appropriate for students.
Organize and maintain teaching materials, file student work, and plan daily activities to meet each child’s needs.
Oversee the class as required during the teacher’s absence.
Attend required educational training and perform other assigned duties.