Special Ed Aide - ECSE

Job Title: Special Education Instructional Aide - ECSE

Wage/Hour Status: Nonexempt

Reports to: Principal and Teacher(s)

Pay Grade: Clerical/Technical 2

Dept./School: Assigned Campus

Date Revised: 06/30/2022

PRIMARY PURPOSE

In the Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) setting, help special and general education teachers provide for the instructional, physical, behavioral, and self-help needs of students with disabilities in special and general education settings. Assist in the implementation of classroom programs, including self-help, medical/physical care, 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 GED
• Valid Texas educational aide certificate (prior to day one in the classroom)
• One of the following:
• Completion of two years of study at an institution of higher education (completion of 48 semester hours of college coursework)
• Associate's degree or higher
• Meet rigorous standard of quality as demonstrated through an approved course of study for paraprofessionals (Master Teacher)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to work with children with special needs
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Knowledge of general office equipment
• Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain professional relationships in dealing with students, faculty, and the public

Experience:

• Some experience working with children preferred

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Instructional Support

1. Help prepare instructional materials, including modifying and adapting classroom activities, assignments, and materials under the direction of the teacher to support and reinforce IEP objectives.

2. Instruct students and groups of students and assist in the implementation of the Individualized Education Program (IEP), including the provision of accommodations, under the teacher's direction.

3. Work with individual students or small groups to develop motor skills and conduct instructional or physical exercises assigned by the teacher or recommended by related service providers.

4. Help the teacher record and maintain academic, behavioral, and administrative data.

Student Support

1. Assist students with physical needs, including transferring to and from wheelchairs or other adaptive equipment, lifting, and positioning.

2. Assist students with self-help and personal care, including feeding, toileting, and personal hygiene.

3. Help manage on-task and disruptive behavior by implementing behavior strategies outlined in the IEP, Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP), or as directed by the teacher. Inform the teacher of special needs or concerns.

4. Learn and adapt to each student's special medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs.

5. Help support and monitor students throughout the school day, inside and outside the classroom. This may include campus-based or vocational training sites, field trips, lunch, hallways, bus loading and unloading, playgrounds, and other outdoor areas.

6. Obtain and maintain SAMA certification, if required by the campus administrator, and implement approved de-escalation techniques. In emergency situations when a student poses a threat to self or others, physically perform approved containment procedures.

Other

1. Maintain confidentiality regarding student and coworker information as required by FERPA.

2. Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned.

3. Follow established schedules, routines, and approved lesson plans.

4. Demonstrate flexibility in assignment and schedule changes while continuing to develop job-related skills.

5. Assist in maintaining an organized and clean environment.

6. Help with inventory, care, and maintenance of materials and equipment.

7. Maintain regular and consistent attendance.

8. Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None.

MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Tools/Equipment Used: Laptop or desktop computer, copier, tablet device, audiovisual equipment, software necessary for administrative and educational tasks, assistive technology, specialized instructional equipment, and specialized personal care, hygiene, and health-related equipment.

Posture: Frequent standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, pushing, and pulling.

Motion: Frequent walking, lifting, positioning, and assisting students throughout the school day.

Lifting: Regular heavy lifting of students; must be able to lift and control up to 50 pounds.

Environment: Work inside and outside; possible exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases. Work may involve aggressive physical contact initiated by students.

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress.

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.