Special Education Educational Assistant

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma and/or Associate Degree or higher, and/or 48 credit hours completed, and/or Para Pro or willingness to complete Para Pro
• Ability to work effectively with children with disabilities
• Ability to follow directions and work under the supervision of certified staff
• Demonstrated skills in communication, collaboration, and professionalism
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality (FERPA/IDEA compliance)
• Be at least 18 years of age

REPORTS TO: Special Education Teacher, Building Principal, Director of Student Services

PRIMARY FUNCTION:

To support students with disabilities in inclusive and specialized educational settings by assisting with instruction, behavior, communication, and personal care needs under the direction of a certified special education teacher. The Educational Assistant helps ensure students can access and participate in their educational program in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist in the educational and social development of students under the direction of special education and general education teachers
• Support implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), including accommodations, modifications, and instructional strategies
• Reinforce teacher-led instruction with individuals and small groups
• Collect and record academic and behavioral data to support progress monitoring
• Provide support to students across settings (classroom, resource room, recess, lunch, transitions, community-based instruction, etc.)
• Assist students in accessing curriculum and participating in school activities in the least restrictive environment (LRE)
• Support the development of communication, social, and functional skills
• Supervise students to ensure safety and engagement
• Implement behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and follow through consistently
• Support students with emotional or behavioral needs using positive behavior strategies
• Assist students in developing appropriate social skills and self-regulation
• Respond to challenging behaviors using trained de-escalation techniques
• Assist with personal care needs as required (toileting, feeding, hygiene, positioning, lifting, transferring)
• Follow student-specific health care plans (e.g., seizure protocols, diabetes plans)
• Maintain a safe environment and respond appropriately in emergency situations
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with: Special education teachers/case managers, General education teachers, Related service providers (SLP, OT, PT, etc.) , Administration and support staff
• Follow the chain of commands, reporting directly to the supervising teacher and/or administration
• Participate in staff meetings, IEP-related meetings (as appropriate), and training opportunities
• Maintain confidentiality in all student and staff matters (required under IDEA and FERPA)
• Demonstrate professionalism in behavior, communication, attendance, and appearance
• Be flexible and adaptable to schedule and assignment changes based on student needs
• Take initiative and assist proactively within the assigned role
• Follow the Lennox School District’s mission/vision, policies, and procedures
• Provide or assist with transportation of students when required by the district
• Be willing to move between classrooms, buildings, or grade levels based on student needs
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervising teacher, principal, special education director, or superintendent

Positions Open Until Filled