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.
A special education paraprofessional provides support to students who need modified instruction or assistance, as described in their Individualized Education Program (IEP).
QUALIFICATIONS
High school diploma or equivalent (GED) Prior job-related experiences, paid or voluntary, with school-age children
RESPONSIBILITIES
Assist in arranging the learning environment, including assembling and putting materials on bulletin boards and/or other classroom learning displays and in keeping such displays current. Under the supervision of a certified teacher, prepare for classroom activities by distributing and collecting papers and other instructional materials for classroom instruction. Assist students in completing classroom assignments, homework, and projects. Support student understanding of classroom rules and procedures and assist students by answering questions, providing proper examples, emotional support, friendly attitude, and general guidance. Read to students, listen to students read, and observe students' reading abilities as assigned. Assist teachers with the implementation of lesson plans. Tutor individual or small groups of students, reinforcing instruction as directed by the teacher. Assist with personal care needs of students (e.g. toileting, hygiene, etc.) Assists students with mobility and access to materials. Supervise students throughout the school building and on the playground. Assists in maintaining a neat, orderly, and attractive learning environment; Monitors student activities, student behavior, and changes in student behavior, Assist in the implementation and monitoring of behavioral plans Maintains a safe and positive learning environment; Participates in daily activities, training sessions Disposes of waste-contaminated materials, food, and toys to maintain the hygiene and health of students and staff; Understand and carry out oral and written directions; Participate in in-service education, conferences, or formal classes related to assignments; Show initiative when working with children or using materials; Maintain cooperative, effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work; Maintain confidentiality of student records; Meet schedules and deadlines; Assist in additional duties as assigned by administration.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Sitting, standing, lifting, and carrying (up to 50 pounds), reaching, squatting, climbing stairs, kneeling, must be able to see and hear the entire classroom, and moving light furniture may be required. May require participation in student restraint as needed in extreme situations.
SAFETY AND HEALTH
Knowledge of universal hygiene precautions.
EQUIPMENT/MATERIALS HANDLED
Must know how to properly operate or be willing to learn to operate all multimedia equipment including current technology.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Classroom/School Environment
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
Hourly rate and work year per Mattawan Educational Support Association collective bargaining agreement.
