TITLE: Instructional Assistant – Montessori Classroom

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Assist the lead teacher in establishing and maintaining a Montessori classroom culture. Supervise students in the classroom, outdoor environment, cafeteria, hallways and playground. Observe and keep records on students’ individual progress. Participate in on-going Montessori training.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education and/or experience equivalent to a High School Diploma or GED

• Associate degree, or 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university or a passing score on the ParaPro Assessment (preferred)
• One (1) year of experience working with children (preferred)
• Ability to participate in district paid Montessori Instructional Assistant training prior to start of school year.
• Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Evidence of TB skin test performed within one (1) year of hire (other immunizations may be required at time of hire)

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this class.)

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist teacher during class time, by redirecting children and aiding children who need help.
• Work with the teacher to prepare the environment each morning and close the environment each afternoon.
• Maintain order and cleanliness of the environment daily.
• Help children to work cooperatively in an atmosphere of respect, using models of behavior and intervention demonstrated by the teacher.
• Help teacher to make materials and plan activities.
• Work with the teacher to learn about philosophy of Montessori to further understand the goals of the class and the school.
• Attend open houses and trainings as directed.
• Monitor and supervise students in classroom, outdoor environment, cafeteria, hallways and playground settings.
• Oversee class as required in teacher’s absence.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS:

• Knowledge of early childhood or adolescent learning methods and techniques
• Knowledge of District policies and procedures affecting assigned work
• Knowledge of District behavior modification program
• Knowledge of reading readiness skills and strategies
• Knowledge of testing procedures and State standards
• Skill assisting teachers with student learning
• Skill monitoring and assisting students
• Skill establishing and maintaining effective working relationships
• Skill communicating orally and in writing
• Skill utilizing classroom supplies and equipment
• Skill in maintaining confidential files and records
• Skill in administering tests
• Ability to work with culturally diverse students

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Generally an indoor classroom setting

Frequently working in outdoor environments

Position is exposed to infectious disease

PHYSICAL EFFORT:

Position may require climbing, stooping, standing, walking, lifting, keyboarding, talking, hearing, and eyestrain, with repetitive motions.

Position may require lifting, pushing, pulling or carrying furniture, equipment and supplies weighing up to 25 pounds frequently.

CATEGORY: Classified

WORK YEAR: 189 Days

DEPARTMENT/SCHOOL: Elementary School

REPORTS TO: Principal

EVALUATION: Classified Personnel Evaluation

SUPERVISES: N/A