Instructional Assistants - David Douglas School District

$40,914 - $44,242/Yr

David Douglas School District 40 - Portland, OR

Full-time - Entry Level

Portland, OR

Educational Services

About the position

The Instructional Assistant position at David Douglas School District involves supporting teachers in instructional activities, particularly for students with special needs. The role focuses on helping students achieve academic, social, emotional, and independent skills through various instructional and behavioral strategies. The position requires active participation in data collection related to student behaviors and the implementation of individualized support plans.

Responsibilities

• Assist teachers in instructional activities for students with special needs.
• Collect specific data related to students' behaviors and contribute to behavior support plans.
• Implement social skills instruction and behavior intervention plans designed by teachers and support staff.
• Utilize crisis prevention intervention strategies, including safe restraint or seclusion techniques when necessary.
• Use district-approved de-escalation and physical intervention techniques in various classroom settings.
• Provide input into individualized sensory plans for students and support their self-regulation skills.
• Communicate effectively with students to promote positive behavior and conflict resolution.
• Assist in the development of communication methods for students as instructed by speech/language pathologists and teachers.
• Meet students' physical and instructional needs using adaptive equipment and technology.
• Perform health tasks and implement individualized protocols as delegated by medical staff.
• Assist in the supervision of students in various settings on campus.

Requirements

• Must have 2 years of college or an Associates Degree or completed district paraprofessional training.
• Prior experience working with students is required.
• Knowledge of English usage, spelling, mathematics, and basic understanding of subjects for assistance.
• Ability to type accurately using word processing programs and operate office machines and audio-visual equipment.
• Knowledge of classroom practices, procedures, and school operations.
• Ability to relate well to students and their requests for assistance.
• Flexibility and patience in supervising and instructing students with varying skill levels.
• Understanding and empathy for students with special needs and familiarity with instructional techniques.
• Ability to plan and organize instructional materials effectively.
• Ability to communicate appropriately and effectively with students, parents, and staff.

Nice-to-haves

• Bilingual candidates are preferred.
• Experience with specialized training sessions by professionals such as RN, Physical Therapist, and Occupational Therapist.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage ranging from $19.67 to $21.27 based on class and experience.
• Employment for 9 months per year with approximately 184 days of work.