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.
Carus Elementary School - Oregon City, Oregon This job is also posted in Canby School District
Job Details
Job ID:
5856804
Application Deadline:
Posted until filled
Posted:
Yesterday
Starting Date:
Aug 24, 2026
Job Description
IMPORTANT
An Associate's degree, completion of a minimum of 72 college/university quarter credits, OR current possession of certification as a highly qualified paraprofessional is required to be eligible for this position. Please do not apply if you do not meet this requirement. This position is assigned to the 3rd-6th grade SOAR behavior classroom.
Job Posting:
Special Education Instructional Assistant
Department:
Student Services
Classification:
Instructional Assistants
FTE:
0.875
Contract Days:
182 or 183 days
Supervised By:
Principal or designee
General Description
The Special Education Instructional Assistant (SpEd IA) supports the academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and functional development of students with disabilities across a variety of educational settings. Under the direction of licensed special education teachers and specialists, the SpEd IA delivers individualized and small-group instructional support, implements behavior intervention strategies, and provides personal care assistance as needed.
Essential Functions
Under the guidance of a licensed special education teacher or specialist, assist students with academic tasks, IEP goals, and skill development in a variety of settings.
Implement behavior support strategies and de-escalation techniques as directed; model and reinforce appropriate behavior and coping strategies to promote student regulation and engagement.
Assist students in accessing instructional materials, navigating classroom routines, and participating in general education settings as appropriate.
Support students with mobility, feeding, toileting, hygiene, or medical needs in accordance with individualized plans and training, ensuring dignity and safety at all times.
Deliver instructional, behavioral, and personal care support in a variety of special education environments—including resource rooms, Supported Learning Centers, program classrooms (e.g., behavior or communication-focused), and general education settings, adapting to the unique needs of each assignment, including 1:1 student support when required.
Maintain a professional demeanor in all interactions with students, staff, and families; handle student information and records with discretion and in accordance with district policies and applicable laws.
Maintain reliable attendance and punctuality to ensure continuity of support for students and effective collaboration with the classroom teacher and school team.
Communicate regularly with the supervising teacher and other school staff; participate in relevant training or professional development to support student learning and well-being.
Job Qualifications
Education/Training
Associate's degree or a minimum of 72 college/university quarter credits (required).
Certification as a highly qualified paraprofessional may be substituted for the education requirement.
Possess or be willing to obtain First Aid/CPR certification.
Work Experience
Experience working with children or youth in educational, childcare, or behavioral settings is required.
Experience supporting individuals with disabilities or behavioral/communication needs is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Thorough knowledge of fundamental academic concepts in math, literacy, and English language development, with the ability to support students' understanding and reinforce instruction across core subject areas.
Thorough knowledge of school routines, behavioral expectations, and classroom procedures.
General knowledge of special education practices, including IEPs, accommodations, and instructional modifications.
General knowledge of basic child development principles and age-appropriate practices.
General knowledge of trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices that support student well-being and inclusion.
General knowledge of FERPA, mandated reporting laws, and confidentiality requirements in a school setting.
Skill in building supportive, respectful relationships with students who may have disabilities, behavioral challenges, or communication differences.
Skill in assisting with instructional activities, note-taking, data collection, and task scaffolding.
Skill in using assistive technology, communication tools, or visual supports as needed.
Skill in using positive behavior support techniques and conflict resolution strategies.
Skill in communicating clearly and respectfully with students, staff, and families.
Skill in managing time effectively, multitasking, and following routines with minimal supervision.
Ability to listen to, read, identify, and understand written and spoken information, ideas, and speech.
Ability to see details at close range and at a distance.
Ability to recognize when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
Work occurs in various school environments including classrooms, sensory spaces, therapy rooms, playgrounds, hallways, and cafeterias. Requires the ability to stay calm and maintain professionalism in a busy and dynamic school environment. Must be able to multitask, follow directions, adapt to changing circumstances, and support students with a variety of academic and behavioral needs. Work involves being in close physical proximity to children of varying ages, abilities, and behaviors, including students who may be dysregulated or require behavioral support. May be exposed to body fluids, challenging behaviors, or loud/noisy settings.
Physical activities include standing, walking, sitting, twisting, bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and pushing or pulling.
Medium Work:
Lifting 50 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
Fingerprinting Notice:
Applicant agrees to assume cost and arrange for a fingerprint-based criminal records check upon offer of employment ($12.50 at Fieldprint office + $75 payroll deduction).
Equity and Inclusion Statement
Canby School District is an equal opportunity educator and employer. It is the policy of the Canby School District and its Board of Education that there shall be no discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other status protected by law in any educational programs, activities, or employment.
For more information, please visit our Prospective Employee Information page or view the full job description.
