What are the responsibilities and job description for the SPECIAL EDUCATION AIDE GRADES 3-5 position at Brandywine Community Schools?
BRANDYWINE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
Engage. Educate. Empower.
Position Announcement
SUMMARY:
We are seeking a compassionate, patient, and dedicated Special Education Aide to join our instructional team. In this role, you will work closely with lead special education teachers, specialists, and general education staff to provide critical academic, behavioral, and emotional support to students with diverse learning needs.
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
This role involves providing one-on-one or small group assistance, adapting instructional materials, supporting individualized education programs (IEPs), and ensuring a safe, inclusive learning environment. The Special Education Aide plays a vital role in helping students access the curriculum, develop life skills, and participate fully in the school community.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS and DUTIES Other duties as assigned and allowable under the grant source
- Assist students with restroom needs
- Supervise classrooms, hallways, recess, lunchrooms, and special classes
- Collect and document data
- Assist with classwork, homework, and classroom instruction
- Provide medical assistance as needed (e.g., breathing treatments, glucose monitoring)
- Perform bus and car duty
- Escort students through hallways and to various locations (e.g., lunch, specials)
- Attend meetings and share information as directed by the supervising teacher
- Support teachers with school-related tasks
- Arrive on time and be ready to work at your designated start time
- Communicate any personal conflicts that may affect your workday with the building principal and classroom teacher
- Maintain confidentiality and refrain from unnecessary gossip
EXTRA DUTIES Opportunities for additional paid duties may be available
- Assisting with field trips, performances, or after-school activities
- Supporting special events like field day or school dances
- Participating in professional development days or extended schedules
QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Ability to supervise and ensure the safety of children in the lunchroom and on the playground
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills for working effectively with students and staff
- Patience, reliability, and a calm demeanor when working with young children
- Ability to enforce school rules and expectations consistently and respectfully
- Basic first aid knowledge preferred; must be able to respond appropriately to minor injuries or incidents
- Physical ability to stand, walk, and monitor large areas for extended periods
- Prior experience working with children in a school or childcare setting preferred
- Professional conduct during and after work hours
- Ability to follow all guidelines in the staff handbook
REQUIRED SKILLS and ABILITIES
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time during lunch and recess supervision
- Capacity to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including snow, rain, and extreme temperatures
- Strong observational skills to monitor student behavior and ensure safety at all times
- Effective communication skills to interact with students and staff in a clear and respectful manner
- Ability to remain calm, patient, and consistent when addressing student needs or resolving conflict
- Basic problem-solving and decision-making skills to respond appropriately to minor incidents or emergencies
- Understanding of and adherence to district policies, contract provisions, and procedures
- Commitment to supporting district and building goals
WORK ENVIRONMENT and CONDITIONS
- The employee shall remain free of any alcohol or nonprescribed controlled substances in the workplace throughout their employment in the District
- May involve lifting, de-escalation, or personal care depending on student needs
- Involves collaboration with staff, families, and outside agencies
- Complies with all federal, state, and district policies, including student data privacy (FERPA) and mandated reporting requirements
Notice of Non-discrimination
Brandywine Community Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, height, weight, marital status, political belief, genetic information, disability or any other legally protected category, (collectively, "Protected Classes"), in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities. Title IX: Elise Sorensen, Director of Adult, Alternative and Special Education. Section 504 Coordinator: Matt Severin, Principal. Civil Rights Coordinator: Travis Walker, Superintendent. For procedural information, please review Brandywine Community Schools Board policies