Special Education Classroom Assistant

Position Title: Special Education Instructional Assistant (Spanish speaking preferred)

Position Type: 10-month, salaried position benefits

About Big Picture Philadelphia

Big Picture Philadelphia (BPP) challenges systemic inequities in education by providing transformative learning experiences at two public high schools in North Philadelphia — El Centro de Estudiantes (El Centro) and Vaux Big Picture High School (Vaux). As proud members of the Big Picture Learning network, we build on students’ strengths, help them identify their interests, and connect them to their passions-- within and outside the school building. Our integrated, community-focused approach to education and personal development ensures students build the skills, confidence, networks, and credentials needed to achieve their personal, academic, and career goals.

Position Description

The Special Education Instructional Assistant at El Centro supports students with various needs, including behavioral needs, severe medical and/or mobility needs, medical fragility, and/or students with disabilities receiving special education services. The SpED IA empowers students to access the instructional program in school and community settings, and maintains a safe educational environment for students.

Responsibilities

• Record and report appropriate data regarding academic, behavioral, and/or health information and services provided to students using the appropriate service log.

• Assist students in using instructional materials and equipment.

• Provide verbal and/or written feedback on observations to the teacher.

• Work with students to reinforce instructional objectives and implement Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goals and objectives for students with disabilities participating in special education services.

• Adapt activities, assignments, and/or materials as directed by the teacher to support students’ participation in the instructional program.

• Assist in the implementation of the IEP as directed by the teacher for students with disabilities receiving special education services.

• Attend IEP or Service Plan meetings at the request of the principal, teacher, and/or parent for a student with disabilities receiving special education services or a 504 Service Plan.

• Assist students with classroom routines and in transitioning from one activity or location to the next.

• Guide students in developing positive, appropriate interpersonal relationships with peers and adults.

• Support students with emotional or behavioral concerns and help them develop appropriate social skills.

• Assist in the management and shaping of student behavioral techniques and/or positive reinforcement strategies.

• Maintain a safe learning environment for students and staff.

• Monitor and assist students in educational and community settings.

• Assist students with ambulation, positioning, turning, and/or mobility within the school premises, class trips, and in the community.

• Assist students with the use of mobility and/or weight-bearing equipment, such as leg braces, walkers, standers, and tricycles.

• Assist students with daily living skills, including feeding, grooming, and dressing.

• Assist students with all aspects of toileting, which may include lifting on and off the toilet, diapering, and the use of changing tables and mats.

• Assist students with tube feedings and/or changing colostomy bag when required, as instructed by the teacher and/or school nurse.

• Monitor vital signs; monitor for seizure activity, and/or tube feedings under the direction of the school nurse.

• Administers First Aid and/or CPR whenever needed and/or required

• Report any change in daily physical condition for a student with severe medical/mobility needs or who is medically fragile.

• Ensure the student utilizes all needed/required safety and health equipment, such as a helmet, glasses, or hearing aid.

• Notify the student's teacher of any equipment that may be damaged or in need of repair, such as a wheelchair or hearing aid.

• Serve as a source of information and help to any substitute teacher assigned in the absence of the regularly-assigned teacher.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred

• Minimum two (2) years of experience or equivalent related work experience to complete the listed duties

• Experience working in an urban school or other large system preferred

• Thorough understanding of and enthusiasm for the Big Picture Philadelphia mission

• Commitment to practices that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion

Skills and Abilities

• Understanding of the growth, development, and potential educational challenges of students with disabilities, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and the types of educational disabilities and special education programs as outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

• Demonstrated ability to use an understanding, patient, and receptive attitude towards students of varied age groups, temperaments, and abilities

• Ability to maintain student confidentiality and handle sensitive information and materials with complete security

• Ability to learn and apply behavior modification or management strategies, reinforcement methods, and specially-designed instructional procedures

• Ability to use instructional materials, assistive technology, and/or communication devices used by students

• Maintenance of accurate, complete, and correct service logs for all students

• Ability to lift, move, and position a student up to age twenty-two who may weigh 150 pounds or more with the assistance of properly trained personnel and/or a mechanical lift

• Calm and appropriate demeanor in emergency situations

• Enthusiasm for establishing and promoting effective working relationships with staff across all levels and functions of the organization, as well as with outside consultants and vendors, and members of the larger Big Picture Philadelphia community of partners and stakeholders

• Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in a diverse, complex, and fast-paced work environment

• Understanding of and ability to put into practice federal, state, and local special education law

• Knowledge of public education is highly desired

• Commitment to communicate proactively and regularly with supervisors and colleagues around progress, obstacles, and needs

• Proficiency in the use of standard office equipment, as well as common computer software applications; willingness to learn new applications and systems as needed

• Strong analytical, oral, and written communication skills

• Excellent organizational skills, including time management, attention to detail, and the ability to balance competing priorities and meet deadlines

• Strong problem-solving and strategic thinking skills

• Willingness and desire to participate in unexpected projects

• Commitment to professional growth

Required Clearances

Successful applicants will be required to complete and submit the following as a condition of hire:

• PA State Police Background Check (EPATCH)

• Childline Clearance

• FBI Fingerprinting

• Act 71

• Act 126

• Act 168

Compensation

The Special Education Instructional Assistant is a full-time employee eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, vision, dental, optional long-term disability insurance, and a 401 (k) retirement plan with employer matching. Salary is commensurate with experience. Big Picture Philadelphia provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $30,000.00 - $35,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

Salary : $30,000 - $35,000