BASIC FUNCTION:

Substitute Instructional Assistants work the same duties as regular Instructional Assistants – Special Education.

Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, assist a certificated teacher in providing instructional support and assistance to teachers and students assigned to a designated special education instructional program; perform a variety of support activities related to behavior management and classroom instruction of special education students; assist in the preparation of instructional materials and provide routine clerical support.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES:

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this class.

• Provide instructional support and assistance to teachers and students assigned to a designated special education instructional program; tutor individual or small groups of student, reinforcing instruction as directed by the teacher; monitor and oversee student drills, practices and assignments in various subjects.
• Accompany and assist students in mainstreamed classes; take notes for students as required; escort students to and from restroom and classes as assigned.
• Assist assigned teacher with the implementation of lesson plans; grade student tests and assignments; record grades; maintain student files as assigned; modify materials and explain instructions and words; assure student understanding of classroom activities and assignments.
• Assist students in completing classroom assignments, homework and projects in various subject areas; assure student understanding of classroom rules and procedures; assist students by answering questions, providing proper examples, friendly attitude and general guidance.
• Reinforce instruction to students with non-severe disabilities, including language, communication and behavioral problems; confer with teachers concerning programs and materials to meet the individual needs of special education students; assist students with meeting Individual Education Plans (IEP) goals and objectives, as assigned by case carrier.
• Perform a variety of clerical duties in support of classroom activities such as preparing, typing, duplicating and filing instructional materials.
• Attend assigned meetings, conferences and in-services.
• Assist students with toileting as directed.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:  High school diploma or equivalent; good general background and work experience, including one year of paid or volunteer experience working with school-age children desired.

Knowledge of:  Child guidance principles and practices related to children with special education needs; problems and concerns of students with special needs; safe practices in classroom and playground activities; basic subjects taught in schools, including arithmetic, grammar, spelling, language and reading; basic instructional methods and techniques; correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; classroom procedures and appropriate student conduct; operation of standard office and classroom equipment; oral and written communication skills; interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy; basic record-keeping techniques; basic positive behavior intervention strategies.

Ability to:  Assist with instruction and related activities in a special education classroom or assigned learning environment; reinforce instruction to individual or small groups of special education students as directed by the teacher; perform a variety of clerical duties including typing, filing and duplicating materials; assist in the preparation of instructional materials and implementation of instructional activities; understand and follow oral and written directions; establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; monitor, observe and report student behavior and progress according to approved policies and procedures; understand and relate to children with special needs; operate standard office and classroom equipment; observe health and safety regulations; maintain records and files; operate standard office and classroom equipment including a computer and assigned software.

Physical Requirements:  Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate standard office and classroom equipment; sitting or standing for extended periods of time; bending at the waist, kneeling or crouching to assist students; seeing to read a variety of materials and monitor student activities; hearing and speaking to exchange information.