BASIC FUNCTION & RESPONSIBILITY: Provide for the instructional, functional, communication and behavioral needs of an individual student in a school or under the direction of a certified classroom teacher and assist with the physical needs of the student as required.

ENTRY QUALIFICATIONS: High school diploma or equivalent and three months of related experience, Texas Paraprofessional Certification preferred

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: The essential functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the characteristic duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities noted herein; however, this is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions found in this job description. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of District, campus, and classroom policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of techniques used in assisting students with special needs.
• Skill in applying classroom/student discipline management.
• Skill in coping with a variety of student needs (including behavioral and physical needs) in stressful situations.
• Skill in operating specialized medical equipment such as suctions, feeding tubes, lifts, wheelchairs, standers, and special beds in keeping with district training and supervision policies.
• Skill in communicating effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Skill in utilizing general instructional strategies.
• Skill in operating standard computer, standard and specialized computer tools and software applications.
• Ability to administer SAMA de-escalation and restraint techniques, First Aid and CPR.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work responsibilities.

Instructional/Behavior Support:

• Assist teachers with the implementation of IEP
• Teach students coping and social skills
• Collect and monitor data on academic and functional progress to support the improvement of instruction and services
• Participate in staff meetings on students’ progress.
• Assist teacher with daily classroom activities; prepare/modify activities to meet student needs; assist with independent study or lead small groups; inform teacher of student progress.
• Implement strategies and supports recommended by instructional and related service providers.
• Support and participate in meeting the objectives of the campus/department improvement plan.

Student Support:

• Assist teacher(s) with instructional/functional/communicative/behavioral needs of the student.
• Monitor student behavior and maintain classroom discipline as necessary, including intervening in crisis situations and restraining aggressive and/or dangerous student behavior as needed.
• Assist campuses in resolving parent/student issues and concerns in a timely manner under the direction of the certified teacher.
• Foster independence by scaffolding support as directed by the certified teacher.
• Communicate with families under the direction of the certified teacher.

Support of Administrative, Fiscal and/or Facilities Functions:

• Assist teacher with preparation of instructional equipment; ensure specific materials and supplies are ready; maintain safe instructional area; perform clerical duties and operate specialized equipment.
• Provide assistance to campuses/departments as requested.

Organization Improvement:

• Work collaboratively to improve programs.

Professional Growth and Development:

• Participate in professional development that increases effectiveness and improves District performance.

Texas Academic Performance Indicators and Campus Performance Objectives:

• Support the administration of state-mandated testing at campuses in compliance with state and federal guidelines.

School/Community Relations:

• Interact positively with employees and the community to provide needed information and to promote the District in a favorable manner.

Organization Morale:

• Participate in team building activities and the decision-making process as appropriate.
• Communicate and collaborate with campus/department staff to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.

Other Responsibilities:

• Comply with policies established by federal and state law, including but not limited to State Board of Education and local Board policy.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None.

PHYSICAL & MENTAL DEMANDS:

• Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment; [P.E. teachers: automated external defibrillator (AED)]
• Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
• Motion: Frequent walking
• Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may lift and move textbooks and classroom equipment.
• Environment: Work inside, may work outside; regular exposure to noise
• Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

• Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments.
• Work involves moderate to frequent exposure to bacteria, communicable diseases, unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
• Work may involve aggressive, physical contact initiated by students.
• Work involves constant interpersonal interactions within an educational environment.