TITLE: Instructional Assistant – Preschool/Head Start

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Assist teachers by performing activities in support of the classroom. Supervise students in various settings including classroom, cafeteria, hallways and playground. Assist student with reading, mathematics and other subjects as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Education and/or experience equivalent to a High School Diploma or GED
2. An Associate degree or 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university, or a

passing score on the ParaPro Assessment (preferred)
3. One (1) year of experience working with children (preferred)
4. State of Arizona Identity Verified (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card
5. Evidence of TB skin test performed within one (1) year of hire (other immunizations

may be required at time of hire)
6. Food Handler’s Card
7. Ability to complete eighteen (18) hours per year of various early childhood training
8. Ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire the Child Development Associate (CDA)

Credential for Head Start positions
9. Ability to speak fluent Spanish (preferred at some sites)

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this class.)

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists teacher with instructions, creation of classroom materials and classroom set up.
• Works with students on a variety of subjects (academic and social skills) in whole group, one-on-one or small group instruction.
• Monitors and supervises students in classroom, playground and cafeteria settings; utilizes District behavior modification program as needed.
• Prepares, organizes, and maintains instructional materials and visual aids; photocopies materials and documents.
• Prepares workstations or learning centers for children to work on daily lessons.
• Assists in assessing and documenting student progress and collaborates with teacher to ensure lessons and materials meet the specific needs of each child.
• Organizes and files student work.
• May oversee class as required in teacher’s absence.
• Attends educational training as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS:

• Knowledge of early childhood learning methods and techniques
• Knowledge of District policies and procedures affecting assigned work
• Knowledge of District behavior modification program
• Knowledge of reading readiness skills and strategies
• Knowledge of assessment procedures and State standards
• Skill assisting teachers with student learning
• Skill monitoring and assisting students
• Skill establishing and maintaining effective working relationships
• Skill communicating orally and in writing
• Skill utilizing classroom supplies and equipment
• Skill in maintaining confidential files and records
• Skill in administering tests
• Ability to work with culturally diverse students

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Generally an indoor classroom setting
May work in outdoor conditions
Position is exposed to infectious disease

PHYSICAL EFFORT:

Position may require climbing, stooping, standing, walking, lifting, keyboarding, talking, hearing, and eyestrain, with repetitive motions.
Position may require lifting, pushing, pulling or carrying furniture, equipment and supplies weighing up to 30 - 35 pounds infrequently.

CATEGORY: Classified

WORK YEAR: 189 Days

DEPARTMENT/SCHOOL: Elementary

GRADE: 32

REPORTS TO: Teacher and/or Principal

EVALUATION: Classified Personnel Evaluation