Instructional Associate: Special Education In-Class Support (26-27 SY)

JOB TITLE: Instructional Associate - SPED WAGE/HOUR STATUS: Nonexempt

REPORTS TO: Principal and Teacher(s) assigned

DEPT. /CAMPUS: Assigned Campus DATE REVISED: October 2025

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

Assist the special education teacher to provide for the physical and instructional needs of students with disabilities in a special education setting. Assist in the implementation of classroom programs, including self-help, behavior management, and instruction. Work under the general supervision of the principal and the immediate direction of a certified teacher.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

High school diploma or its recognized equivalent and meet one of the following requirements:

• Complete at least two years of study at an institution of higher education (defined as completion of 48 semester hours or equivalent trimester hours) of college coursework or an applicable number of semester hours as defined by the institution of higher education attended, whichever is less;
• Possess an associate (or higher) degree; or
• Meet a rigorous standard of quality and can demonstrate, through a local academic assessment-
• Knowledge of and the ability to assist in instructing reading, writing, and mathematics; or
• Knowledge of and the ability to assist in instructing reading readiness, writing readiness, and mathematics readiness, as appropriate.

Valid Texas Educational Aide Certificate

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Ability to work well with children with disabilities

Ability to follow verbal and written instructions

Ability to communicate effectively

Knowledge of general office equipment

Experience:

Experience working with children

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Uphold and enforce school rules, administrative regulations, and state and local board policy.
• Assist students with physical disabilities according to their individualized needs, including transferring to and from wheelchairs, lifting or positioning.
• Assist students with physical needs and personal care including feeding, bathroom needs, and personal hygiene.
• Assist in managing the behavior of students and crisis intervention, including restraining disruptive or dangerous physical behavior as needed.
• Assume responsibility for learning and adapting to each student's special medical, physical, communicative and emotional needs.
• Work with individual students or small groups to develop motor skills and conduct instructional exercises assigned by the teacher.
• Assist in supervising students throughout the school day, both inside and outside the classroom, including lunchroom, bus duty and playground.
• Keep the teacher informed of any special needs or problems of individual students.
• Assist the teacher in preparing instructional materials and classroom displays.
• Assist in maintaining a neat and orderly classroom.
• Assist in inventory, care, and maintenance of equipment.
• Assist the teacher in keeping administrative records and preparing required reports.
• Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers.
• Maintain integrity of confidential information.
• Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings and special events as needed.
• Comply with all district and local campus routines, policy, and regulations.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by supervising teachers or principal.

EQUIPMENT USED:

Use wheelchair lift, ramps, personal computer, copier, typewriter and audiovisual equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands:

Reading; ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written); maintain emotional control under stress

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Frequent standing; stooping; bending; kneeling; pushing and pulling; regular heavy lifting of students; biological exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required