Under the direction and guidance of a Special Education teacher, credentialed school nurse and/or other certificated employee, perform a variety of functions and activities pertaining to the care and instruction of individuals with moderate to severe disabilities after receiving appropriate training.  Assist and monitor special needs, which may include feeding, toileting, positioning, and performing healthcare procedures of medically involved students.  Assist in implementing the instructional program for students with special needs, relieve teacher of routine clerical duties and perform other duties as required.  Positions in this class are distinguished from other Instructional Assistant classes in that they provide instructional and physical assistance to students who are developing the foundation for progressive mastery of reading, writing, mathematics and life skills, and are on track for a certificate of achievement rather than a high school diploma.  Knowledge of, basic concepts of child growth and development and developmental behavior characteristics of severely handicapped children and/or those with physical health care needs, behavior management strategies and techniques and a variety of reinforcement methods and strategies, basic first aid and emergency treatment procedures including CPR. Methods, techniques and procedures for lifting and moving children incapable of providing assistance. English usage, punctuation, spelling and grammar.  Basic arithmetic, record keeping and appropriate safety precautions and procedures. Ability to demonstrate an understanding, patient and receptive attitude toward handicapped people. Manage student behavior appropriately and guide students toward more acceptable social behaviors. Communicate effectively in oral and written form (utilizing manual communication as required by the assignment). Respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations, administering first and/or CPR as necessary. Perform routine clerical skills and operate a variety of educationally related machines and equipment. Operate a vehicle, observe legal and defensive driving practices (if applicable). Understand and carry out oral and written instructions, establish and maintain effective working relationships with persons contacted in the course of work. Learn to provide code authorized health services (training provided) including proper care of any special equipment or materials. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of universal precautions (hand washing, disposing of body fluids, etc.) Maintain students’ rights of confidentiality and privacy.