2026-2027 Kindergarten Instructional Assistant

Portsmouth Public Schools•Portsmouth, VA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Performs responsible human support and paraprofessional work assisting classroom teachers by working with individual special needs students or small groups. Work is performed under the regular supervision of assigned teachers, therapist or pathologist.

Requirements

Applicants must be highly qualified as mandated by the No Child Left Behind Act.
Applicants must possess either of the following: an associates degree or 48 semester credit hours (2 years) at an accredited college or university, or have successfully passed the Para Pro exam (score of at least 455).
General knowledge of the practices, methods and techniques used in the teaching of special education population.
Ability to maintain confidential files and information and to compile reports.
Ability to deal effectively with special students and teachers.
Skill in the use of classroom and instructional equipment.
Ability to operate audio visual, standard office, word and data processing equipment.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with teachers, parents, students and the general public.
Stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, and repetitive motions.
Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word.
Hearing is required to receive detailed information through oral communications and/or to make fine distinctions in sound.
Visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities.

Responsibilities

Assists classroom teacher in performing specific duties as assigned or undertaking specialized tasks to achieve and enhance instructional objectives.
Maintains various records and files, keeps confidential files, test scores and related records.
Works with individuals or small groups to reinforce material introduced by teacher.
Provides programmed practice activities and repetitions.
Prepares various reports, sets up counseling sessions, conducts orientation sessions.
Verifies student records and grades for scholarships and awards; prepares honor roll.
Assists with large group activities.
Escorts students to special classes and therapy.
Guides independent study and other work assigned by teacher.
Advises teacher on student problems.
Assists students with handicaps, assists with loading and unloading buses.
Assists with breakfast, lunch, snack, clean-up, lavatory, clothing, personal hygiene, and wash-up routines.
Participates in in-service training programs as assigned.
Uses technology to enhance instructional programs.
Performs related tasks as required.