Special Education Paraprofessional @ Marks Elementary

PARAPROFESSIONAL - SPECIAL EDUCATION GENERAL SUMMARY Under the supervision and general direction of certificated personnel assigned by the site administrator, assists instructional personnel with the development and presentation of learning materials and instructional exercises for identified special needs students; tutors students individually or in small groups to reinforce and follow up on instructional activities; and performs other duties directly related to this job description. The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Monitors and assists special needs students through practice and study activities following the presentation of learning concepts by instructional personnel. Reads to students, explains words and meanings, rephrases materials and provides appropriate learning examples. Assists in checking/validating student’s work in progress and provides assistance/clarification for successful completion of assignments. Prepares materials for lessons. Reviews and corrects student’s work. Assists students in the development of communication skills and serves as an appropriate language model. Helps instructional personnel in general behavioral shaping and reinforcement strategies as directed. Provides necessary assistance with routine classroom procedures and supervises special needs students during recess and lunch periods as assigned by the Alternative/Special Education Principal. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED Ability to see and read, with or without vision aids; ability to hear and understand speech at normal levels; ability to communicate so others will clearly understand normal conversation. Knowledge of correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary. Skill in helping students develop understanding and ability in reading, math, and language comprehension. Ability to assist in the management and shaping of student behavior through positive reinforcement strategies. Skill in demonstrating an understanding, patient, warm and receptive attitude toward students. Ability to maintain a variety of records and reports, score tests and complete and record grades. Ability to maintain a neat, orderly and attractive learning environment. Skill and ability in working with diverse school population, and to establish and maintain positive working relationships with parents/guardians, community members and outside agency personnel. Ability to: Lift/carry 150 pounds occasionally (less than 33% of the time or 1-100 times per day); Lift/carry 60 pounds frequently (34-66% of the time or 100-500 times per day); Lift/carry 20 pounds constantly (67-100% of the time or over 500 times per day); Push a maximum force of 100 pounds on objects; Pull a maximum force of 100 pounds on objects. WORKING CONDITIONS Light to moderate physical effort, standing, sitting, and/or walking for extended periods of time. Lift and move instructional materials and equipment. Low to moderate stress level. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS Indoor classroom and school environment. Temperature – usually normal climate, occasional adverse weather conditions. CONTACTS Daily contact with students, teachers, school and District staff. Occasional contact with parents/guardians and community members and outside agency personnel. OCCUPATIONAL CERTIFICATES/LICENSES First Aid and CPR certification. Annual Blood borne Pathogen/Hep B Training. EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS Hold an Associate’s or higher degree, or completion of two years of higher education study, or passed a formal state or local academic assessment that demonstrates knowledge of and the ability to assist in teaching reading, writing, and mathematics or reading, writing, and mathematics readiness. Dexterity and physical condition to maintain a moderate to rigorous work schedule and meet standards of physical and mental health. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. Note: Minimum qualifications may be waived on a case-by-case basis by the Superintendent or designee in his/her sole and absolute discretion. Board Approved: April 14, 2004 Revised: June 15, 2006