Special education para professional job description

Under supervision, assists in the supervision and instruction of children with special needs, disabilities or delays; observing and documenting student progress; implementing plans for instruction; and providing clerical support to teachers and therapists.
MAJOR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Adapts classroom activities, assignments and/or materials under the direction of the special education teacher or therapist for purposes of providing an opportunity for all children with special needs, disabilities or delays to participate in classroom activities.
2. May assist students with personal hygiene needs for the purpose of providing for and/or developing students' daily living activities and behavioral skills.
3. Confers with teachers as requested for purpose of assisting in evaluating student progress, coordinating tests or assignments, and/or implementing IEP/IFSP objectives.
4. Implements behavioral plans for students with behavior disorders or other special conditions for the purpose of assisting in meeting students' needs and providing a consistent environment
5. Instructs children with special needs, disabilities or delays, one-on-one or in groups for purpose of implementing goals for remediation of student deficiencies and ensuring students success
6. Performs record keeping and clerical functions for the purpose of supporting the teacher and/ or therapist(s) in providing necessary records/materials.
7. Prepares/processes food and assists in feeding of assigned students for the purpose of meeting the nutritional needs of medically fragile children.
8. Monitors children with special needs, disabilities or delays for the purpose of providing a safe and positive learning environment.
9. May drive a van or automobile to transport students.
10. Uses positive reinforcement strategies and other appropriate techniques to assist students in the development of appropriate behavior and an appreciation of human diversity.
11. Assists in the preparation of a variety of instructional materials and learning aids for use with individual or small groups of students.
12. May administer and score a variety of tests and record test results.
13. Requisitions, stores, and maintains an appropriate inventory of textbooks, instructional materials, supplies and equipment.
14. Uses good judgment regarding appropriate action to assist injured or physically ill students.
15. Assists in maintaining an orderly, attractive and positive learning environment.
16. Because of the Tribe's commitment to community service and the well-being of its members, each employee may be expected to perform a wide range of office and field duties from time to time. Such duties may or may not be related to their regular responsibilities.
EDUCATION - EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING FOR POSITION
Required : Associate's degree or Bachelor's degree in Education, or related field. One (1) year of professional experience working with children with special needs, disabilities or delays in an educational or similar setting. Para Professionals are required to complete the Fundamental Course of Study (FCS) within one year of employment and obtain a General Para Educator Certificate.
Preferred: Possess Special Education Para Educator Certificate
Special Requirements : Must pass a criminal background check, a drug screen and meet all health and immunization requirements. Must be able to obtain satisfactory results on a pre-employment physical examination, including tuberculosis screening.
SPECIFIC SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES REQUIRED FOR POSITION
Skilled In: Effective communication with students, parents, or guardians, staff and administrators; working with children in an understanding, patient, receptive and confident manner; organizing activities in keeping with the maturity and attention span of assigned students; following written and oral instructions; managing student behavior; using standard office equipment, including personal computer; utilizing a variety of equipment used in the care and handling of students with severe disabilities; and preparing and maintaining accurate records.
Knowledge of : Basic concepts of child development and developmental behavior characteristics; basic effective behavior management techniques; rules and procedures for child/student safety; basic math.
Ability to : Read and write; follow verbal and written instructions; work with students in a positive and confident manner; observe safe work practices; establish and maintain cooperative work relationships; arrive to work in a timely manner; attend required training; maintain confidentiality; adapt and be flexible to changing work priorities; work with constant interruptions
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties of this class; While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk and talk or hear; occasionally required to sit; use hands to operate, finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms; occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately quiet.
Licenses or Certifications Required A current and valid Washington State driver's license; a valid Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR certificate and Food Handler's permit may be required at the time of appointment or at a time set by the Tribe.

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:

At the direction of the principal, assists teachers by performing a variety of tasks that promote student learning and well-being. Works individually and in small groups to reinforce instruction, monitor performance, and support learning. This position also performs a variety of instructional and classroom management supports, as well as related clerical tasks to support teachers and other professional staff in all classrooms or learning environments.

CERTIFICATE LICENSE:

None.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

Knowledge of child development, instructional strategies and practices applicable to assignment, and instructional goals and policies of Montgomery County Public Schools. Ability to assist with implementation of the instructional program and to participate in monitoring and ensuring appropriate student behavior. Ability to exhibit patient behavior and to work effectively with children, young adults, and staff members. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and to perform all required tasks. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Ability to read/write/speak English. Ability to interact with and support students with special needs. Knowledge of standard desktop computer hardware and software such as MS Office products and database software. Knowledge of and the ability to meet the seven core competencies of the Supporting Services Professional Growth System (SSPGS).

EDUCATION, TRAINING, and EXPERIENCE:

These requirements are in order of preference. 1. AA degree, required. Bachelors degree preferred. College course work should include a minimum of nine credit-hours related to education field such as behavior management, instructional strategies, and one year experience working with students in structured educational (or academic) situations preferred. Or: If no related education course work, then two to four years experience working with children and adolescents required. I.e. working in a structured setting such as a daycare, pre-school, etc. required. 2. Or at least 48 college credits and two years of experience in an education related field including preschool, adult day program, after school program, extended day, or school/non-school based departments, etc. 3. Or two years of experience in an education related field including nursery school, adult day program, after school program, extended day, or school/non-school based departments, etc., and successful completion of the ParaPro Assessment with a qualifying score of 455 or higher is required. I.e. Opportunity for current supporting services employees 4. Any combinations of applicable education, training, and experience which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.