A Special Education Teaching Assistant in a Tennessee middle school provides instructional, behavioral, and physical support to students with disabilities. This role is vital for ensuring students can access the curriculum and achieve their Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals.

Core Responsibilities Instructional Support :

Reinforce lessons taught by the lead teacher through one-on-one or small group tutoring. This includes adapting classroom activities to meet specific student needs.

IEP Implementation :

Assist in carrying out the specific provisions and accommodations outlined in a student's IEP or 504 Plan.

Behavioral Management :

Facilitate appropriate social interactions and implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs). This may include responding to medical issues or destructive behaviors as needed.

Supervision :

Actively monitor students in various settings, including the classroom, cafeteria, hallways, and during arrival or dismissal (such as bus loading).

Documentation :

Record and maintain accurate daily data regarding student academic performance, behavioral progress, and attendance.

Personal Care :

Depending on the assignment (e.g., Comprehensive Development Classrooms), assistants may help students with physical needs such as feeding, toileting, or operating mechanical lifts

QualificationsRequirements Education :

At minimum, a high school diploma or GED is required by the state. "Highly Qualified"

Status :

Many districts require an Associate's Degree , 48 college credit hours , or passing the Praxis ParaPro Assessment .

Age :

Candidates must be at least 18 years old .

Clearances :

Must pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting per Tennessee state law.

Physical Demands :

The role often requires significant standing, walking, and the ability to lift or move up to 50 pounds (e.g., adaptive equipment).