Instructional Assistant II - Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Job Description:

The Instructional Assistant II (Autism - Special Education) assists in the specialized instruction of students with autism spectrum disorders under the supervision of a licensed teacher in a special education classroom; observes and documents student progress; implements plans for instruction and reinforcement of skills. The autism instructional assistant observes and documents student progress; implements plans for instruction, and implements behavioral plans as directed by the teacher. This Support 10-month position reports to the School Principal. 

   - One (1) Vacancy at James K. Polk Elementary School

Qualifications:

• Education: 48 college credits or an Associate of Arts (AA) degree, or be able to demonstrate college-level skills in spelling, reading, writing, and math by passing a proficiency test.

• Certificates & Licenses: Formal training or certification in ABA is highly preferred.

• Experience: The position requires experience and/or additional training in the instruction of students with autism spectrum disorders.

Essential Functions:

• Adapts classroom activities, assignments, and/or materials under the direction of the teacher to provide an opportunity for the student to participate in classroom activities.
• Implements intervention strategies and supports (visual aids, prompting strategies, reinforcement systems, communication tools, etc.) as directed by the teacher to address student goals.
• Documents student progress or behavioral observations using objective measures and records data as directed by the teacher.
• Confers with teachers on a regular basis to assist in evaluating student progress and/or implementing IEP goals.
• Implements academic instruction taught by a teacher to meet learning goals, as described by an IEP.
• Implements strategies to maximize practice opportunities for social and communication skills and emotional regulation to promote short and long-term independence as directed by the teacher.
• Implements behavioral plans designed by the IEP team for students with behavior disorders or other special conditions to meet special education students’ needs and provide a consistent environment.
• Maintains instructional materials and/or student files/records (e.g. adapting instructional materials).
• Accepts feedback from teachers and related service providers to ensure accurate and consistent implementation of educational techniques or strategies.
• Communicates and collaborates to foster a positive learning environment.
• Effectively communicates with adults and students.
• Attends meetings and in-service presentations. 
• Performs other related duties, as assigned, to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Training Requirement: The Virginia Board of Education as directed by the 2012 General Assembly requires that instructional assistants assigned to work with a teacher who has primary oversight of a student with autism spectrum disorders must receive training in student behavior management within 60 days of the assignment. The Special Education Instructional Assistant II will be provided with the opportunity to participate in online instructional modules for meeting this requirement at no cost to the employee.

Compensation: 

• Hourly wage $20.10 to $24.73 an hour (Additional factors in calculation, including hours, # of days, etc.)

• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt position - This position is classified as non-exempt, meaning it is eligible for overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act. 

Clearances:

• Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance.
• Tuberculosis Skin Test.
• Public Health Compliance - Must follow safety and health protocols.

WP