What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Instructional Assistant II - American River position at California Montessori Project?
An Instructional Assistant II (IAII) reports to the Principal and is responsible for assisting in the classroom with all students, including special education students as needed. IAs work in collaboration with teachers and other school professionals and are crucial in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment wherever assigned. An Instructional Assistant II will work closely with a wide range of ages and ability levels, supporting students in their academic and personal growth while working under the supervision of the site’s special education teacher.
Job title: Instructional Assistant II
Classification: Part-time, or Full-time, depending on assignment, non-exempt
Number of working days: 188
Site Lead: Principal
Salary/rate of pay: Instructional Assistant Pay Scale
Benefits: Sick, paid holidays, 403(b) and 457 retirement plans through CalSTRS Pension2, childcare in Club M (subject to availability, application fees apply), and wellness resources. For Full-time positions: medical, dental, vision, and a basic life policy.
Essential Functions:
- Contribute to the creation and maintenance of a safe and nurturing learning environment that promotes emotional well-being and academic growth.
- Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment by promoting respect, understanding, and cooperation among all students, directing children in a positive and respectful environment.
- Monitor and observe the daily operation of classrooms for safety, positive interaction and productive educational activity.
- Participate in meetings with teachers and other school professionals to discuss student progress, goals, and strategies, as necessary.
- Assist in the preparation and organization of classroom materials, resources, and activities.
- Model appropriate social interactions with students and peers.
- Complete required reports related to accidents and injuries in accordance with school policies.
- Coordinate with teachers for homework club, tutoring, student educational needs and extra curricular activities as necessary.
- Notify Teacher and/or Administration of unusual circumstances to include infectious disease, injury, illness and accident.
- Adhere to state and government regulations appropriate to school operational procedures.
- Clean and sanitize all manipulative materials and apparatuses often (weekly).
- Maintain a neat and orderly classroom to include dusting, mopping and vacuuming as necessary.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
- Support students during instructional activities, ensuring they are engaged, on task, and comprehending the material being presented.
- Under the guidance of the Special Education Teacher and/or Classroom Teacher, may assist in modifying assignments and assessments, as needed, to accommodate individual student requirements.
- Assist the Special Education Teacher and/or Classroom Teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and adapting curriculum materials to meet the diverse needs of students.
- Help manage classroom behavior by implementing strategies outlined in behavior intervention plans (BIPs), use Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to help teach and reinforce desired behaviors, and effectively de-escalate tense situations.
- Maintain accurate records of student performance, behavior, and achievements, and contribute to progress reporting. Data collection will be supervised by case manager and/or CMP BCBA.
- Support students during assigned disciplinary measures, which may include in-house suspension and social isolation. Attentive supervision will contribute to maintaining a safe and conducive learning environment for all students involved.
- Provide one-on-one and small group support to students with special needs, including those with learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, and other exceptionalities under the supervision of the teacher.
- If assigned as a 1:1 instructional aide, provide support to a specific student, helping the student succeed in the classroom and ensuring access to the curriculum alongside their peers. Provide assistance with daily tasks, such as personal care, mobility, and transitioning between activities
- Complete the required toileting training and provide toileting support according to the guidelines for students as necessary.
- Coordinate with other IAs throughout the day to support the needs of multiple students when necessary.
- Attend relevant professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and stay up-to-date with best practices in special education.
Competency
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, teachers, and other professionals.
- Empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of students with diverse abilities.
- Ability to follow and implement instructions from teachers and specialists accurately.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines in working with sensitive information.
Supervisory Responsibilities: None
Work Environment
- Classroom Environment: This role often works in classrooms where conditions can vary. This may include exposure to noise, varying levels of student engagement, and the need to adapt to changing circumstances.
- Emotional Demands: Working with students who have special needs can be emotionally demanding but also incredibly rewarding. Special Education Teaching Assistants must remain patient, compassionate, and composed, even in challenging situations.
- Collaboration: Regular interaction and collaboration with teachers, therapists, and other professionals to implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPS) to support students effectively.
- Professional Development: Ongoing learning and development to stay updated with best practices in special education, behavior management techniques, and educational technology.
Physical Demands
The role of an Instructional Assistant II involves various physical demands due to the nature of working with students. These demands may include:
- Mobility: Moving around the classroom, assisting students with mobility challenges, and transitioning between activities.
- Lifting: Occasionally lifting and assisting students with physical disabilities, as well as lifting and arranging classroom materials.
- Sitting and Standing: Engaging with students, teachers, and activities while both sitting and standing for extended periods.
- Physical Assistance: Providing support with personal care tasks, which might involve assisting with feeding, toileting, and other activities of daily living.
- Adapting to Student Needs: Quickly responding to unexpected situations, such as helping a student who is experiencing a behavioral challenge.
Safety Measures
- Safety Protocols: Following established safety protocols and guidelines to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of all students.
- Proper Techniques: Utilizing appropriate techniques for assisting students with physical disabilities or behavioral challenges to prevent injury to both students and staff.
- Health Considerations: Adhering to health and hygiene standards and being mindful of any allergies or medical conditions that students may have.
Position Type and Expected Hours of Work: This position can be full-time or part-time, depending on assignment, with expected hours varying based on the needs of the school.
Travel: Minimal or none
Required Education and Experience
- Associates Degree, 48 college educational units, or the ability to pass a paraprofessional exam
Preferred Education and Experience
- Special Education, or related field
- Montessori experience
Affirmative Action Plan/Equal Employment Opportunity AAP/EEO Statement: It is the policy of California Montessori Project to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. This policy relates to all phases of employment, including, but not limited to, recruiting, employment, placement, promotion, transfer, demotion, reduction of workforce and termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, selection for training, the use of all facilities, and participation in all company-sponsored employee activities.
Other Duties Disclaimer: Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
