LONG TERM SUB - Special Education ESP (Teaching Assistant/Paraprofessional)

Westford Public Schools•Westford, MA

32d•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting directly to building based administration and an assigned cooperating teacher(s), and working under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement with Westford Education Association/Unit E, the Educational Support Professional (ESP) advances the mission of WPS by developing curious lifelong learners who are responsible, empathetic members of the community, demonstrating innovation through a wide variety of opportunities within inclusive, joyful learning environments that embrace their variability and honor their diversity. The ESP plays a vital role in supporting students' academic, social, and emotional growth within the educational setting. The ESP works closely with certified teachers to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive. All ESPs are expected to communicate effectively with their cooperating teacher regarding student progress, behavior, and any concerns. As with all members of the school community, ESPs must maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with school policies and legal requirements. The Special Education ESP assists the teacher in general daily classroom activities, provides individualized support to special needs students, and attends to their physical, emotional health and safety, while affirming their abilities and promoting dignity in all interactions. Under the direction of a certified special education teacher or therapist, the ESP helps implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), foster a positive and inclusive learning environment, and support the overall well-being of students. As part of the Team, professional staff members (teachers, therapists, counselors) consult with ESPs to provide accommodations, modification and services agreed upon in a student's IEP. ESPs may also be asked to collect data on student performance and behavior, assist in tracking student progress towards IEP goals and document observations and provide feedback to the teacher. In some cases personal Adaptive Daily Living Skills care such as supporting personal hygiene, feeding, dressing is required. Based on the level of care required, an ESP may be asked to assist with physical transfer and positioning of students, as directed by therapists and with proper training. Data Collection and Progress Monitoring is an important requirement in special education; therefore an ESP may be asked to collect data on student performance and behavior as directed by the teacher and assist in tracking student progress towards IEP goals.

Requirements

high school diploma
solid communication skills and demonstrate interpersonal skills
an ability to relate well with students, staff, administrators, parents/caregivers and the community.
patience, empathy, and a genuine interest in working with students with and without special needs
understanding of the unique needs of students with disabilities
ability to work independently and as part of a team
ability to maintain confidentiality
willingness to participate in required training, such as behavior management techniques
ability to walk and stand on tile flooring, occasionally lift up to 25 pounds, and bend/twist regularly at the waist, knees and neck
Must be able to assist in the protection of students and school property, and assist in fire and other emergencies drills as required by law and School Committee policy

Nice To Haves

Further formal education such as an associates or bachelor degree or demonstrate professional training is preferred.

Responsibilities

providing one-on-one, small group or whole group instruction to students with and without special needs, reinforcing lessons and adapting materials as directed by the teacher
assisting students with completing assignments, projects, and activities, offering guidance and encouragement
implementing instructional strategies and accommodations, as directed by the teacher
utilizing assistive technology and other specialized equipment to support student learning
reading tests aloud, taking notes, and providing other accommodations as directed by the teacher
helping students develop organizational and study skills
assisting the implementation of positive behavior support plans and strategies
monitoring and redirecting student behavior, promoting a positive and safe learning environment
helping students develop social skills and appropriate interactions with peers
providing support during behavioral crisis, following established protocols and training
assisting the teacher with classroom management, organization, and preparation of materials
helping set up instructional materials, visual aids, and equipment
maintaining a clean, safe, and orderly classroom environment
supervising students during transitions, lunch, recess, and other non-instructional times
assists the teacher in general daily classroom activities
provides individualized support to special needs students, and attends to their physical, emotional health and safety, while affirming their abilities and promoting dignity in all interactions
helps implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
foster a positive and inclusive learning environment, and support the overall well-being of students
collect data on student performance and behavior
assist in tracking student progress towards IEP goals
document observations and provide feedback to the teacher
assist with physical transfer and positioning of students, as directed by therapists and with proper training