Special Education Assistant | Susan Lindgren Elementary

Saint Louis Park Independent School District 283•Saint Louis, MN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Special Education Assistant provides direct support to students with special needs under the direction of a special education teacher. The role supports classroom activities, implementation of individualized education plans (IEPs), and one-on-one or small-group instruction. The assistant helps students develop academic, social, communication, behavioral, and life skills so they can participate fully in an inclusive learning environment. Duties may also include assisting with daily living activities, monitoring and documenting student progress, and adapting materials and activities to students’ needs. The position is based primarily in a classroom and may also involve supporting students during lunch, recess, transitions, school events, and field trips. It requires collaboration with teachers, therapists, administrators, and other staff, as well as patience, empathy, flexibility, and the ability to remain calm in challenging situations. The role is 0.81 FTE, 6.5 hours per day, 10 months, and non-exempt. The listed salary range is $22.30–$28.47.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Meet one of the following qualification pathways: two years of college credits from an accredited institution; an associate degree or higher; or a passing score on an approved formal academic assessment.
Knowledge of basic special education principles and practices, including IEPs and individualized instruction.
Knowledge of different types of disabilities and their effects on learning and behavior.
Knowledge of behavioral management strategies, child development, learning strategies, and school policies and procedures concerning safety, confidentiality, and classroom management.
Ability to work with students with a variety of special needs one-on-one and in small groups.
Ability to implement IEP goals and objectives under a teacher’s direction.
Ability to communicate effectively with students, teachers, and parents and collaborate with teachers, therapists, and other staff.
Ability to manage classroom behavior, use positive reinforcement, adapt instructional strategies and materials, and record and report observations in an organized manner.
Ability to support daily living activities, including feeding, personal hygiene, and mobility assistance.
Patience, empathy, a positive attitude, and the ability to remain calm and professional in challenging situations.
Ability to follow instructions and established educational practices, policies, and guidelines.
Ability to monitor and support students during classroom activities, transitions, and special events.
Ability to stand or walk for extended periods; move quickly around the school; bend, kneel, reach, and use hands to handle materials and adaptive technology; and maintain energy and focus throughout the day.
May need to lift or assist in lifting students and carry or move equipment or materials, including weights up to 30 pounds.
May need to provide hands-on assistance with personal care and positioning students with mobility impairments.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working with children, particularly children with special needs, is highly preferred.
Experience in a classroom or educational setting is a plus.
Additional post-secondary coursework in special education, child development, or a related field.
Training in first aid, CPR, or behavioral management techniques is preferred.
Knowledge of first aid and emergency procedures, including CPR if required by the district.
Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training will be provided.

Responsibilities

Provide one-on-one or small-group classroom support during lessons, activities, and instruction.
Help implement and follow students’ IEPs under the guidance of the special education teacher.
Support students with academic tasks, including reading, writing, and math.
Assist with student behavior and implement behavioral strategies identified in IEPs or individual behavior plans.
Help students develop social, communication, life, and self-help skills and foster independence.
Assist with daily living activities, including eating, dressing, personal hygiene, toileting, and mobility, when required.
Monitor student progress, record observations, and report on academic, behavioral, and social development.
Adapt or modify classroom materials and activities to meet students’ specific needs.
Support students during transitions, lunch, recess, and school events while ensuring their safety and well-being.
Help maintain an inclusive, positive, and supportive classroom environment.
Collaborate with the special education team, including teachers, therapists, and administrators.
Assist with classroom management and supervise students during activities, recess, lunch, and field trips.
Participate in meetings and training sessions focused on student outcomes and special education practices.
Perform other duties as assigned to support students’ educational and personal development.