Classroom Assistants are paraprofessionals who support students with special needs, including Special Education Assistants, One-on-One Assistants, and Daily Care Assistants. They work with individual or small groups of students to help them implement specific academic, behavioral, and physical accommodations as outlined in their Individualized Education Program.Their responsibilities include:
- Documenting students' needs, strengths, gains, and problem areas, as directed by the teacher(s). They must maintain the confidentiality of student records and information. Classroom Assistants also consult with teachers to implement goals and monitor progress.
- In some cases, Classroom Assistants may provide direct student assistance with monitoring medical conditions, physical needs, personal care, feeding, and toileting. Daily Care Assistants may be needed and may receive a $1.00/hour shift differential.
- The position is 184 days/year, up to 27.5 hours/week.
- PDE Highly Qualified status pays $17.78
- Non-Highly Qualified with the willingness to pursue Highly Qualified status pays $14.56
To be considered for the position, the candidate must have:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Be willing to pursue district-sponsored credentialing through online training provided by the PA Department of Education.
- Must also have current Act 34, 114, and 151 clearances.
Furthermore, all instructional assistants, one-on-ones, and daily care assistants must attend mandatory half-day in-service sessions offered by the district and participate in other in-service sessions to obtain 20 hours of professional development activities each school year.