What are the responsibilities and job description for the Teacher Assistant AAC Technology Support position at West Warwick Public Schools?
Essential Job Functions: (may include one or all)Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)The goal of this role is to enhance communication access, streamline AAC support, and promote consistent and effective use of AAC systems throughout the school day. This teacher assistant will assist the speech and language therapist(s)s in the programming, implementation, and maintenance of communication devices and visual support for students with significant communication disabilities. By supporting the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and classroom teams, this position will improve efficiency, reduce device downtime, and increase student participation and progress toward Individualized Education Program (IEP) communication goals.Wakefield Hills Elementary serves an increasing number of students with complex communication needs who rely on AAC systemsranging from picture-based communication boards to high-tech speech-generating devicesto communicate effectively.: Work directly with SLP to support AAC programming, customize, and update AAC devices and software in alignment with student IEP goals.Prepare, organize, and maintain low- and mid-tech supports (e.g., core boards, communication books (including backup printouts for high-tech devices, choice boards, thematic play boards with links to video modeling, and visual schedules).Students communication tools are functional, programmed, and consistently available for daily use.Staff receive timely support and materials for classroom implementation.Device issues are addressed efficiently, minimizing instructional interruptions.Support classroom staff in implementing AAC systems and visual supports consistently throughout the school day.Assist with data collection and documentation related to students AAC use and communication progress.Support the creation of staff training materials to enhance classroom implementation of AAC strategiesAssist by supplementing lessons in individual or small groupsPerform basic classroom dutiesPrepare materials for the classroomSupervise students during transitional times as directed by teacherCommunicate with parents as instructed by teacherSupervise arrival and/or dismissalAssist in supervising of students during non-instructional timeAdminister formal and informal assessment (spelling test, etc.) scoring objective tests and written papers and keeping appropriate recordsAssist teacher in recording and charting informationAssist teacher in behavioral managementAttend IEP or staff meetings at the request of the building administratorAssist/perform personal care activities, to include, toileting, diapering and feeding routine (includes lifting as needed)Support students in the regular classroomAssist students with organizationAssist students utilizing technologyAssist with physical therapy and/or occupational therapy under the direction of the Teacher and/or Physical Therapist and/or Occupational TherapistAssist other Teacher Assistant when applicableMaintain confidentialityTranslate and interpret correspondence and other forms of communications (ELL only)Assist students in pool activity and assist students with dressing and undressing routine depending on students level of independenceAssist students in the pool and assist students with dressing and undressing routine depending on the students level of independence.Experience preferred in working with students with significant behavioral and emotional issues.