A Teacher Assistant assists classroom teachers by providing extra individual attention and instruction to students. Helps teachers with recordkeeping, preparation for lessons and activities and supervising students. May work with special education students, or work in a school library or computer lab; may be called teacher aide or paraprofessional.
Classroom Teacher / Special Education Coordinator / Building Executive Director /
Building Principal Department:
Student Services /
Special Education Job Summary:
The Paraprofessional works under the direct supervision of a certified special education teacher to provide instructional, behavioral, and personal-care support to students. This role assists in implementing lesson plans, supporting students with individualized education programs (IEPs) or 504 plans, and helping to create a safe, structured, and inclusive learning environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Assist the special education and classroom teachers in implementing instructional programs and individualized lesson plans. Provide one-on-one or small-group support to students, including those with disabilities or special learning needs. Help implement behavior management plans and de-escalation strategies as directed by the teacher, special education staff, and administration. Monitor and supervise students in the classroom, cafeteria, hallways, on school trips, and on Adventure Education. Assist with preparing instructional materials and classroom displays. Assist in collecting and recording data on student progress, behavior, and IEP goals as directed. Reinforce academic skills (reading, writing, math, etc.) under teacher direction. Assist with adaptive equipment and assistive technology as needed. Maintain confidentiality regarding student records and information in accordance with
FERPA/IDEA
guidelines. Communicate professionally and collaboratively with teachers, related service providers, and families. Perform other duties as assigned by the supervising teacher or administrator.
Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's degree or 48+ college credit hours preferred (or passing score on approved paraprofessional assessment). Prior experience working with children, particularly those learning differences, preferred. CPR/First Aid certification preferred (or willingness to obtain). Ability to pass required background checks and fingerprinting.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Basic understanding of child development and learning differences. Ability to follow instructions and implement plans developed by certified staff. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Patience, reliability, and a positive, supportive, and restorative attitude toward students. Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries. Basic computer literacy for data entry and communication.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 40 lbs . Ability to participate in an Adventure Education program (hiking, biking, kayaking/canoeing, etc.) Ability to respond quickly in physical or emergency situations involving students. Visual and auditory ability to monitor student activity in various settings.
Work Environment:
Primarily indoor classroom setting and lunch room; may include outdoor supervision duties (Adventure Education, arrival/dismissal). Regular interaction with students, teachers, administrators, and parents/guardians.
Compensation and Schedule:
$22 an hour, negotiable based on relevant experience. Monday-Thursday, 7:15 AM-2:00 PM and Friday, 7:15 AM-12:45
