Paraprofessional Assistant

This position supports the teacher of exceptional students or students with handicaps in performing assigned tasks in support of a quality educational program.

• Assist the teacher in preparing materials and equipment for direct instructional activity, including locating, copying, collating, distributing and/or grouping materials supporting instructional activities pre-planned by the teacher.
• Schedule space for specialized instructional programs and coordinate the arrangement of equipment, desk, table, chairs, activity area and the like.
• Examine short and long-term unit plans prepared by the teacher and anticipate the need for specific supplies and materials.
• Follow appropriate training and lead small group activities planned by the teacher in an atmosphere where students are actively engaged in meaningful learning experiences.
• Assist the teacher in preparing for changing curriculum to meet the needs of students with diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, learning styles and special needs.
• Maintain a clean and orderly environment for students.
• Assist in the implementation of appropriate student behavior management techniques.
• Manage time efficiently.
• Provide student supervision as assigned.
• Assist in maintaining the security of records, materials and equipment.
• Assist the teacher in the enforcement of classroom rules and the maintenance of appropriate records.
• Assist in assessing student progress as directed, including proctoring the administration of tests, the marking of papers and the maintaining of confidential records.
• Assist in evaluating program effectiveness and seek and suggest ways of continuous improvement.
• Assist as assigned in the collection of assessment data from a variety of sources and in compiling and organizing data for review by the teacher.
• Assist the teacher in completing requirements for grade reporting, scheduling conferences and recording results.
• Provide instructional assistance as planned or coordinated by the teacher or administrator.
• Assist students with personal hygiene, health and safety issues or grooming if required.
• Use classroom management techniques conducive to an effective classroom environment.
• Perform assigned clerical and bookkeeping duties.
• Perform health procedures (medication administration, tube feeding, clean intermittent bladder catheterization) as assigned after completing required training.
• Communicate effectively with the public, staff members, students, parents, administrators and other contact persons using tact and good judgment.
• Follow attendance, punctuality and proper dress rules.
• Ensure adherence to good safety standards.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding school/workplace matters.
• Model and maintain high ethical standards.
• Demonstrate initiative in the performance of assigned responsibilities.
• Maintain expertise in assigned area to fulfill project goals and objectives.
• Participate successfully in the training programs offered to increase skill and proficiency related to assignment.
• Keep supervisor informed of potential problems or unusual events.
• Respond to inquiries and concerns in a timely manner.
• Serve on school/system committees as required or appropriate.
• Exhibit interpersonal skills to work as an effective team member.
• Demonstrate support for the school system and its goals and priorities.
• Demonstrate initiative in identifying potential problems or opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare all required reports and maintain all appropriate records.
• Participate in cross-training activities as required.
• Perform other tasks consistent with the goals and objectives of this position.

Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently and/or up to 10 pounds of force as needed to move objects.

Salary and benefits shall be paid consistent with the System's approved compensation plan. Length of the work year and hours of employment shall be those established by the system.

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy on evaluation of personnel.