Instructional Assistant-Lifeskills

Elementary Life Skills Instructional Aide (IA)

Company Overview:

MSD of Pike Township is committed to providing exceptional educational opportunities for all students, including those

with special needs. Pike prioritizes inclusivity, diversity, and individualized support to ensure every student reaches their

full potential. We are currently seeking a highly qualified Elementary Life Skills Instructional Aide to join our team and lead

our efforts in providing outstanding special education services.

Position Overview:

The Elementary Life Skills Instructional Aide plays a critical role in supporting students with significant disabilities in

developing essential life skills and achieving greater independence. This position provides personalized assistance and

instruction to students in a variety of areas, including self-care, communication, socialization, and functional academics.

The Instructional Aide collaborates closely with teachers, therapists, and other professionals to create a supportive and

inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive.

Key Responsibilities:

Assistance in Daily Living Skills:

Provide one-on-one or small group support to students with significant disabilities in developing self-care

skills such as feeding, grooming, toileting, and dressing.

Implement individualized strategies and supports to promote independence and autonomy in daily living

activities, including the use of assistive technology and adaptive equipment.

Facilitate opportunities for students to practice and generalize life skills in real-life contexts, both within

the classroom and in community-based settings.

Functional Academics Support:

Assist teachers in delivering functional academic instruction tailored to students individualized education

plans (IEPs), focusing on practical applications of reading, writing, math, and problem-solving skills.

Adapt instructional materials, activities, and assessments to meet students unique learning needs and

abilities, incorporating multisensory and hands-on learning experiences.

Provide direct instruction and reinforcement of academic concepts, utilizing visual aids, manipulatives,

and technology-based resources as appropriate.

Communication and Socialization:

Support students in developing communication skills, including receptive and expressive language,

augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and social interaction.

Facilitate peer interactions and socialization opportunities among students with significant disabilities and

their peers, promoting positive relationships and inclusive practices.

Collaborate with teachers and therapists to create individualized communication systems and social skills

support that meets students communication needs and preferences.

Behavioral Support and Management:

Implement behavior management strategies and interventions to support students social-emotional

development and self-regulation skills.

Monitor students behavior and emotional responses during instructional activities, intervening as needed

to prevent escalation and promote positive interactions.

Collaborate with teachers and support staff to develop and implement individualized behavior plans and

support strategies tailored to students unique needs and challenges.

Assessment and Progress Monitoring:

Assist in administering assessments and informal evaluations to gather data on students progress in

developing life skills, functional academics, and social-emotional abilities.

Document student progress and responses to interventions, maintaining accurate records and reports for

use in instructional planning, IEP meetings, and parent communication.

Participate in team meetings to discuss student progress, share observations, and contribute insights to

inform instructional and intervention strategies.

Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent required; Associates or Bachelors degree in Education, Special Education,

Occupational Therapy, or related field preferred.

Previous experience working with children with significant disabilities, particularly in a school or educational

setting, preferred.

Knowledge of life skills instruction, functional academics, communication strategies, and behavior management

techniques for students with diverse learning needs.

Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with teachers, staff, students, and families from diverse cultural

and linguistic backgrounds.

Patience, empathy, and a genuine commitment to supporting the independence and well-being of students with

significant disabilities.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary and benefits will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, following the guidelines set by the school

corporation.

Working Conditions:

The Elementary Life Skills Instructional Aide typically works in a classroom or educational setting dedicated to serving

students with significant disabilities. This position involves close collaboration with teachers, therapists, and support staff

to implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and support students needs. The Instructional Aide may also

participate in professional development activities and training sessions to enhance knowledge and skills in supporting

students with diverse learning needs and promoting functional independence.

Note:

This job description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this

position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and qualifications required of employees in

this role.