The posting
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title
Teacher Assistant, Special Education Behavior
Evaluation Type
Paraprofessional
Department
Assigned Campus
Pay Grade
P3
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Date Revised
December 2023
Supervisor
Principal / Teacher Assigned
BASIC FUNCTION & RESPONSIBILITY: Provide for the behavioral needs of individual students and/or group of students in a school or under the direction of a certified classroom teacher and in accordance with the procedures and protocols set forth by the Campus Behavior Support program.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education/Certification:
- High school diploma or equivalent
Special Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
- Knowledge of District, campus, and classroom policies and procedures
- Knowledge of techniques used in assisting students with special needs
- Knowledge of Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI), First Aid and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
- Skill in utilizing general instructional strategies
- Skill in applying classroom/student discipline management
- Skill in communicating effectively, both verbally and in writing
- Skill in operating standard computer and software applications
- Ability to administer SAMA de-escalation and restraint techniques
- Ability to organize and prioritize work responsibilities
- Ability to take direction from supervising teacher and/or district staff
Experience:
- Six (6) months of related experience
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: The essential functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the characteristic duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities noted herein; however, this is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions found in this job description.
Instructional Support:
- Assist teachers with the implementation of Behavior Intervention Plans.
- Teach students coping and social skills.
- Collect and monitor data on behavior programs including: redirection, interventions, and behaviors.
- Participate in meetings on students’ progress.
- Assist teachers with daily classroom activities; prepare/modify activities to meet student needs; assist with independent study or lead small groups; inform teachers of student progress.
- Implement strategies and supports recommended by instructional and related service providers.
- Support and participate in meeting the objectives of the campus/department improvement plan.
Student Support:
- Assist teacher(s) with emotional/behavioral needs of students.
- Monitor student behavior and maintain classroom discipline as necessary, including intervening in crisis situations and restraining aggressive and/or dangerous student behavior as needed.
- Foster independence by scaffolding support as directed by the classroom teacher.
- Communicate with families under the direction of the classroom teacher.
- Assist in resolving parent/student issues and concerns in a timely manner.
- Assist in managing student behavior in the classroom and common campus areas in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.
Support of Administrative, Fiscal and/or Facilities Functions:
- Assist teacher with preparation of instructional equipment and displays; ensure specific materials and supplies are ready; maintain safe instructional area; perform clerical duties and assist with operation of equipment.
- Provide assistance to campuses/departments as requested.
Organization Improvement:
- Work collaboratively to improve programs.
Professional Growth and Development:
- Participate in professional development that increases effectiveness and improves District performance.
Texas Academic Performance Indicators and Campus Performance Objectives:
- Support the administration of state-mandated testing at campuses in compliance with state and federal guidelines.
School/Community Relations:
- Interact positively with employees and the community to provide needed information and to promote the District in a favorable manner.
Organization Morale:
- Participate in team building activities and the decision-making process as appropriate.
- Communicate and collaborate with campus/department staff to enhance service delivery and customer satisfaction.
Other Responsibilities:
- Comply with policies established by federal and state law, including but not limited to State Board of Education and local Board policy.
- Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: None
MENTAL DEMANDS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:
- Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment; [P.E. teachers: automated external defibrillator (AED)]
- Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
- Motion: Frequent walking
- Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may lift and move textbooks and classroom equipment
- Environment: Work inside, may work outside; regular exposure to noise
- Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours
