Paraprofessional, Special Needs

Vail Unified School District•Tucson, AZ

About The Position

The Paraprofessional, Special Needs provides assistance to teachers in preparing materials, working with and supervising students, and delivering individualized instruction and curriculum adaptations according to students’ skills. The role supports students’ academic, social, functional, and life-skill needs as specified in their Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). The position has no supervisory responsibilities. The posting lists 7.5 hours per day and 191 days per year.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
One to three months of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
Ability to speak effectively with students, parents, and organizational employees.
Ability to communicate effectively with students who have speech and language disabilities.
Ability to perform basic arithmetic using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals, and to compute rates, ratios, and percentages and interpret bar graphs.
Ability to follow written, oral, or diagrammatic instructions using common-sense understanding and to solve problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
Upon recommendation for hire, must present certification in First Aid and CPR training.
Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including regularly lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

Assist in developing students’ Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
Implement daily lesson plans, including academic, social, and functional activities specified in the IEP.
Organize and prepare instructional materials for students.
Provide individual or group instruction using lesson plans.
Maintain records and files for assigned students.
Formally and informally evaluate attainment of IEP goals.
Assist the classroom teacher as time and conditions permit.
Design, implement, and enforce behavior management plans.
Provide physical assistance to assigned students as needed during school hours, both on and off campus, including field trips, assemblies, and playground activities.
Provide individualized life-skill assistance described in the IEP, such as toileting and feeding.
Use proper techniques when handling, lifting, and carrying students.
Assist with physical, occupational, speech, and other therapy as instructed and described in the IEP.
Maintain student confidentiality while informing the teacher and principal of important aspects of student activities.