Position Type: Support Staff/Special Education AssistantDate Posted: 6/10/2024Location: Rowe Elementary School(High-Needs School)Date Available: 08/14/2024Closing Date: until filled
Title: Elementary Special Education Classroom Assistant Reports to: Director of Diverse Learning/Special Education Case Manager Position Description: Under the direct supervision of the General Education classroom teacher and the Special Education teacher, the Elementary Special Education Classroom Assistant is responsible for providing direct support to a specified student with exceptional needs in a manner that supports the overall educational atmosphere of Rowe Elementary School (RES), where students have the opportunity to meet and exceed academic, behavioral, and functional expectations, including through the implementation of a scholar's Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan. Position Expectations: - Provide individual assistance and support to a specific student with identified behavioral and functional needs within the academic setting and during transitions throughout the day.
- Responsible for assisting the General Education classroom teachers and the Special Education teacher in all potential instructional settings, including assisting specific scholar at recess, multi-purpose room/gymnasium, lunchroom, libraries, field trips and all other educational settings;
- Responsible for guiding any independent study, enrichment work, and instruction set up by the General Education classroom teacher and the Special Education teacher;
- Administer diagnostic assessments with appropriate assessment modifications indicated in this scholar's Individual Education Program.
- When required, operate and care for classroom equipment for instructional purposes;
- Actively support a well organized, smooth functioning learning environment where the student can take full advantage of the instructional program and available sources;
- Serve as a resource person to the specialized services clinical team and IEP team;
- Perform other duties as may be necessary and assigned by the classroom teacher or Special Ed Case Manager
Professional Relationships & Expectations: - Models RES core values and can effectively communicate school mission and vision in a compelling manner
- Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing, with students, parents, and other professionals on a regular basis
- Collaborates with peers to maximize student learning and enhance instructional environment
- Models professional and ethical standards when dealing with students, parents, peers, and community
- Meets professional obligations through efficient work habits such as meeting deadlines, honoring schedules, collaborating with peers, and working with parents to maximize student learning
- Cooperates with other school staff and is prepared to meet all responsibilities of the position
- Facilitates relationships with parents of the scholars to whom the position is assigned in the areas of academics, discipline, and functional performance
Additional Expectations: - Dress professionally at all times
- Take vacation only during summer months or on school holidays
- Strong desire to be challenged professionally and challenge colleagues in an effort to maximize student achievement
- Organize workload and prioritize demands to meet deadlines
Qualifications: - IL Paraprofessional Certification
- Belief and alignment with school's core beliefs and educational philosophy
- College coursework in education; special education coursework or bachelor's degree preferred
- Previous experience with students with identified exceptional needs
- Ability to organize and maintain student files, including those files under district, state, and federal regulations
- Strong organizational skills; extremely careful attention to detail and follow-through
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Strong communication skills and an ability to build and maintain relationships with all stakeholders
- computer skills (Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, internet research skills)
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment; flexible, able to work autonomously as well as take directions as needed; willingness to assume a variety of assignments