Special Education Instructional Assistant II - Carmichael

California Montessori Project • Carmichael, CA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The California Montessori Project (CMP) is seeking a Special Education Instructional Assistant II (IAII) to support students in the classroom, including special education and TK/K students. Reporting to the Campus Principal, the IAII will collaborate with teachers and other school professionals to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment. This role involves working with students of various ages and abilities, assisting them in their academic and personal growth under the supervision of the site's special education teacher. The IAII will play a crucial role in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs), supporting students during instructional activities, and managing classroom behavior using Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). The position is part-time, non-exempt, and classified, working 192 days a year on an 11-month hourly calendar.

Requirements

• Associates Degree, 48 college educational units, or the ability to pass a paraprofessional exam
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, teachers, and other professionals.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of students with diverse abilities.
• Ability to follow and implement instructions from teachers and specialists accurately.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines in working with sensitive information.

Nice To Haves

• Special Education, or related field
• Montessori experience

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the creation and maintenance of a safe and nurturing learning environment that promotes emotional well-being and academic growth.
• Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment by promoting respect, understanding, and cooperation among all students, directing children in a positive and respectful environment.
• Monitor and observe the daily operation of classrooms for safety, positive interaction and productive educational activity.
• Participate in meetings with teachers and other school professionals to discuss student progress, goals, and strategies, as necessary.
• Assist in the preparation and organization of classroom materials, resources, and activities.
• Model appropriate social interactions with students and peers.
• Complete required reports related to accidents and injuries in accordance with school policies.
• Coordinate with teachers for homework club, tutoring, student educational needs and extra curricular activities as necessary.
• Notify Teacher and/or Administration of unusual circumstances to include infectious disease, injury, illness and accident.
• Adhere to state and government regulations appropriate to school operational procedures.
• Clean and sanitize all manipulative materials and apparatuses often (weekly).
• Maintain a neat and orderly classroom to include dusting, mopping and vacuuming as necessary.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Support students during instructional activities, ensuring they are engaged, on task, and comprehending the material being presented.
• Under the guidance of the Special Education Teacher and/or Classroom Teacher, may assist in modifying assignments and assessments, as needed, to accommodate individual student requirements.
• Assist the Special Education Teacher and/or Classroom Teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and adapting curriculum materials to meet the diverse needs of students.
• Help manage classroom behavior by implementing strategies outlined in behavior intervention plans (BIPs), use Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to help teach and reinforce desired behaviors, and effectively de-escalate tense situations.
• Maintain accurate records of student performance, behavior, and achievements, and contribute to progress reporting. Data collection will be supervised by case manager and/or CMP BCBA.
• Support students during assigned disciplinary measures, which may include in-house suspension and social isolation. Attentive supervision will contribute to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment for all students involved.
• Provide one-on-one and small group support to students with special needs, including those with learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, and other exceptionalities under the supervision of the teacher.
• If assigned as a 1:1 instructional aide, provide support to a specific student, helping the student succeed in the classroom and ensuring access to the curriculum alongside their peers. Provide assistance with daily tasks, such as personal care, mobility, and transitioning between activities.
• Complete the required toileting training and provide toileting support according to the guidelines for students as necessary.
• Coordinate with other IAs throughout the day to support the needs of multiple students when necessary.
• Attend relevant professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and stay up to date with best practices in special education.
• May be required to independently supervise small or large groups of students for brief periods (e.g., during lunch, recess, or transitions) without direct support from another adult.

Benefits

• Sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Vacation (as applicable by position)
• 403(b) and 457 retirement plans through CalSTRS Pension2
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance for Full Time Positions
• Access to free before and after care through Club M for employees with students enrolled at a CMP campus (subject to availability; application fees apply)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health care and dependent care
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Mental Health Support through Nivati

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree