Special Education Assistant

Los Angeles Unified School District

7d • $33 - $40

About The Position

The Los Angeles Unified School District’s Division of Special Education is hiring Special Education Assistants to fill current and future vacancies throughout the District. Special Education provides services, support programs, specialized placements, and environments to meet the needs of eligible students with disabilities, at no cost to families. Its purpose is to provide specially designed instruction and intervention and help students access the same educational programs and activities as their non-disabled peers.

A Special Education Assistant supports teachers by caring for students’ physical needs and helping with their training and education through educational materials and exercises. The position may be offered on a 9-month basis, with salary and paid time off adjusted accordingly.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent, plus one of the following: 48 semester units or 72 quarter units from a recognized college or university; an associate or higher degree from a recognized college or university; or passing scores on the District Proficiency (DP) Test and Instructional Assistance (IA) Test. A passing CBEST score may substitute for the DP Test.
• In addition to the education requirement, one of the following: 12 semester units or 18 quarter units in courses directly related to instruction, physical care, or the well-being of children with disabilities; 600 hours as an LAUSD Special Education Trainee; or one year of verifiable experience providing physical or instructional assistance to disabled individuals in a school, preschool, hospital, or other education program. A District- or recognized institution-approved course in language signing or Braille may substitute for three of the required semester units.
• Obtain an LAUSD Food Handler’s Certificate upon appointment and renew it annually.
• Obtain a First-Aid Certificate from a recognized training program within 60 days after appointment and maintain its validity during employment.
• Obtain a CPR Certificate from a recognized training program within 60 days after appointment and maintain its validity during employment.
• Sufficient strength to safely lift and carry objects or assist in lifting students of varying weights.
• A valid California driver’s license and use of a motor vehicle, or the ability to use an alternative method of transportation, may be required for some positions.
• Ability to communicate in a language in addition to English may be required for some positions.

Nice To Haves

• Compassion, patience, and reliability, with an understanding of the physical and emotional needs of children at different developmental stages.
• Knowledge of the general nature and causes of physical, mental, and emotional disabilities.
• Knowledge of first-aid techniques and safe use of specialized equipment such as wheelchairs and braces.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English using appropriate vocabulary.
• Ability to establish rapport, gain students’ confidence, and build positive relationships through empathy and respect.
• Ability to remain calm and act appropriately in emergencies, follow directions accurately, and collaborate as part of a team.
• Readiness to assist students with daily living needs, including feeding and toileting, while maintaining their dignity.

Responsibilities

• Perform activities related to training, physical care, discipline, and tutoring to help students with disabilities develop habits, knowledge, and skills.
• Assist teachers in implementing lessons or portions of lessons for individual students or groups, checking work for accuracy, and presenting additional assignments as directed.
• Help students use books, classroom materials, and equipment.
• Adjust or rephrase portions of text and classroom instructions.
• Keep routine records related to attendance, grades, test scores, and lunch money.
• Assist teachers with electronic equipment and presenting materials and methods to reinforce lessons.
• Assist teachers in directing activities for assigned groups of students.
• When trained by appropriate staff, lift students in and out of holding or locomotive devices and on and off buses.
• When trained by appropriate staff, assist students with toileting, including diapering and lifting students on and off toilets, changing tables, and mats.
• When trained by appropriate staff, assist students with mobility equipment such as leg braces, walkers, mobile standers, and tricycles.
• When trained by appropriate staff, assist teachers in working with students who may hit, bite, scratch, or run, and work as part of a team to implement behavior support or crisis plans.

Benefits

• Paid premiums for a choice of medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
• Membership in the California Public Employee Retirement System (CalPERS).
• Full-time employees earn up to two weeks of paid vacation to start, increasing to three weeks after five years of year-round paid service.
• Up to 13 paid holidays.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED