Primary Purpose
Assist special education teacher to provide for physical and instructional needs of students with disabilities in special education setting. Assist in implementation of classroom programs, including self-help, behavior management, and instruction programs. Work under general supervision of principal and immediate direction of certified teacher.
Qualifications
Education/Certification
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid Texas paraprofessional certificate or willingness to obtain
- Meet NCLB Paraprofessional Highly Qualified Requirements
Special Knowledge/Skills
- Patience and interest in working with students with disabilities
- Ability to follow teacher directions and implement instructional strategies
- Knowledge of basic classroom procedures and child development
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work as part of a team
Experience
- Experience working with children
- Experience working with students in a special education classroom, preferred
Major Responsibilities and Duties
Instructional Support
- Assist in implementing IEP goals through daily instructional activities
- Support students in academic tasks, communication practice, and life skills routines
- Prepare materials and adapt resources as directed by the teacher
- Monitor student progress and behavior; collect and document data as needed
- Provide support with assistive technology, adaptive equipment, and mobility aids
Student Management
- Support students with physical, behavioral, and emotional needs
- Follow behavior intervention plans and assist with emotional regulation strategies
- Supervise students during classroom transitions, lunch, restroom breaks, and other daily routines
- Maintain confidentiality of student records and information
Other
- Attend relevant trainings and staff meetings as required
- Participate in safety drills, ARD meetings (if requested), and school functions
- Follow all campus and district procedures, including emergency and safety protocols
Supervisory Responsibilities
None
Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors
Tools/Equipment Used: Standard instructional and office equipment, mobility aids, adaptive devices
Posture: Frequent standing and walking; prolonged sitting; kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, lifting
Motion: Regular movement; frequent physical assistance or prompts to students
Lifting: Frequent light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); Occasional heavy lifting (45 pounds or over) and positioning or students with physical disabilities, controlling behavior through physical restraint, assisting nonambulatory students, and lifting and moving adaptive and other classroom equipment
Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; exposure to biological hazards (bacteria, communicable diseases); exposure to behavior challenges
Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions and challenging students needs; 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. |