Job Abstract

Instructional Assistant II – Special Education (Moderate/Severe)

Range: 21
Work year: School days
Hours: Varied

DEFINITION:

Under general supervision, to perform a variety of follow-up instructional activities; to assist in the conduct of training and learning activities with children experiencing special learning needs; to perform a variety of routine clerical and supportive activities for instructional personnel; and to do other related work as required.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

• Assist lifting of pupils
• Assist staff member in positioning pupils and in rendering various forms of personal care such as toileting and in diapering
• Assists pupils in dressing, undressing, bathing, and grooming as needed
• Assists instructional personnel with the presentation of learning materials and in the conduct of instructional exercises
• Tutor individual students and small groups of students with special learning needs to reinforce and follow up learning and training activities
• Monitor and assist students with special learning needs in drill, practice and study activities as a follow-up to the presentation of instructional lessons by teaching personnel
• Direct students into safe learning activities and functions, and assists in shaping of appropriate social behaviors
• Assist in the management techniques
• Assist in the preparation of a variety of instructional materials and learning aids
• Maintain a variety of records an files
• Operate and assist students in the operation of a variety of instructional media
• Monitor and assist in the remediation of specific learning problems
• May administer medication in accordance with specific medical instruction
• Perform routine first aid which may include aiding children experiencing seizures or respiratory problems
• Requests appropriate assists in maintaining an orderly, attractive and positive learning environment
• May participate in parent conferences
• May assist in the development of communication skills with children who experience language and hearing disorders
• May be required to communicate manually, using a technique such as See-Signing


QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of:
• Basic concept of child growth and development and developmental behavior characteristics, particularly pertaining to pupils with special learning needs
• Behavior management strategies and techniques relating to pupils experiencing atypical control problems
• Methods, techniques and procedures for lifting and moving children incapable of providing assistance
• Appropriate English usage, punctuation, spelling and grammar
• Basic arithmetical concepts
• Routine record storage, retrieval and management procedures

Ability to:
• Demonstrate an understanding, patient and receptive attitude toward students of varied age groups, particularly those exhibiting needs of a specialized nature
• Appropriately manage student behavior and guide student toward more acceptable social behaviors
• Communicate effectively in oral, written, and manual form
• Perform routine clerical tasks and operate a variety of educational and office related machines and equipment
• Learn to utilize a variety of appropriate instructional materials and procedures in the enhancement of a training and educational environment
• Understand and carry out oral and written directions
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with children and adults

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade, preferably supplemented by training or coursework in child growth and development, special education, instructional technology, or a closely related field. One year of paid or volunteer experience working with children of various age levels requiring a specialized learning environment.