2026-2027 Instructional Assistant - Elementary

Portsmouth Public Schools•Portsmouth, VA

About The Position

The Instructional Assistant provides instructional support and paraprofessional assistance to classroom teachers by working with students individually or in small groups. The role is performed under the regular supervision of assigned teachers, pathologists, therapists, or principals, and includes assisting students with special needs in achieving established goals, including support with personal care and mobility. The assistant reinforces classroom instruction, supports independent study and group activities, maintains student records and confidential files, and uses technology to enhance instructional programs. The position also involves helping students with daily routines and transitions, including meals, hygiene, transportation, and attendance at special classes or therapy.

Requirements

Be highly qualified as mandated by the No Child Left Behind Act.
Possess either an associate’s degree, 48 semester credit hours (two years) at an accredited college or university, or a passing Para Pro exam score of at least 455.
Have general knowledge of practices, methods, and techniques used in teaching special education populations.
Be able to maintain confidential files and information and compile reports.
Be able to work effectively with special students and teachers.
Have skill in using classroom and instructional equipment.
Be able to operate audiovisual, standard office, word-processing, and data-processing equipment.
Be able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with teachers, parents, students, and the general public.

Responsibilities

Assist teachers and other professionals in achieving instructional objectives.
Help special population students achieve established goals, including assistance with personal care and mobility.
Prepare and maintain files, records, reports, confidential information, and test scores.
Work with individuals or small groups to reinforce material introduced by the teacher and provide programmed practice and repetition.
Assist classroom teachers with assigned duties and specialized instructional tasks.
Prepare reports, arrange counseling sessions, and conduct orientation sessions.
Verify student records and grades for scholarships and awards, and prepare the honor roll.
Assist with large-group activities and guide independent study and other work assigned by the teacher.
Escort students to special classes and therapy.
Advise teachers about student problems.
Assist students with handicaps, including loading and unloading buses.
Assist with breakfast, lunch, snacks, clean-up, lavatory, clothing, personal hygiene, and wash-up routines.
Participate in assigned in-service training programs.
Use technology to enhance instructional programs.
Perform related tasks as required.