The Special Education Teacher Assistant provides instructional, behavioral, and personal support to students with disabilities under the supervision of a certified special education teacher and school administrators. The Teacher Assistant assists in implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), supporting student learning, promoting independence, and maintaining a safe and inclusive educational environment.Supervisory ResponsibilitiesNoneEssential Functions and ResponsibilitiesInstructional SupportAssist the special education teacher in implementing instructional programs and activities designed to meet students' educational goals and objectives.Provide individual and small-group academic support as directed by the teacher.Reinforce lessons and learning activities introduced by the teacher.Assist with classroom preparation, instructional materials, and educational technology.Support students in completing assignments, projects, and classroom activities.Monitor and document student progress as directed.Behavioral SupportImplement behavioral intervention plans and classroom management strategies under the direction of the teacher and related service providers.Assist students in developing social, emotional, communication, and self-regulation skills.Provide positive reinforcement and redirection to support appropriate student behavior.Help maintain a structured, safe, and supportive learning environment.Student Care and SupervisionAssist students with daily living activities, including eating, dressing, toileting, hygiene, and mobility as required by student needs and IEPs.Provide supervision during classroom activities, transitions, recess, lunch, field trips, and other school-related activities.Assist students with physical disabilities or medical needs as directed by healthcare plans and trained personnel.Support students in accessing school programs and activities in the least restrictive environment.Collaboration and CommunicationWork collaboratively with teachers, administrators, therapists, nurses, and other staff members to support student success.Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and professional development activities as required.Maintain confidentiality regarding student records, services, and personal information.Communicate observations and concerns regarding student progress, behavior, and well-being to the supervising teacher.Classroom and Program SupportPrepare, organize, and maintain instructional materials and classroom equipment.Assist in maintaining a clean, safe, and organized classroom environment.Support the implementation of accommodations and modifications identified in student IEPs.Perform clerical duties related to classroom operations, including copying, filing, and record keeping.Required Knowledge/Skills/AbilitiesKnowledge of child development and learning principles.Knowledge of special education practices and instructional support techniques.Knowledge of behavior management strategies and positive behavioral supports.Knowledge of student confidentiality requirements and educational regulations.Knowledge of classroom safety procedures and emergency protocols.Skill in working effectively with students who have diverse educational, behavioral, and developmental needs.Skill in providing academic and behavioral support under teacher supervision.Skill in communication and collaboration with students, families, and school personnel.Skill in maintaining accurate records and documentation.Skill in utilizing instructional materials, assistive technology, and classroom resources.Ability to establish positive and supportive relationships with students.Ability to implement teacher-directed instructional and behavioral interventions.Ability to maintain patience, flexibility, and professionalism in challenging situations.Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary educational team.Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to student needs and concerns.Ability to adapt to changing student needs, schedules, and assignments.Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.Education and ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalent.Ability to work effectively with children and adolescents with diverse learning, behavioral, emotional, and physical needs.Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.Strong communication and interpersonal skills.Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.Associate degree, college coursework, or certification in education, special education, human services, or a related field.Previous experience working with children with disabilities.Experience in educational, childcare, healthcare, or human service settings.Training in behavior management, crisis prevention, autism spectrum disorders, or related areas.Physical RequirementsProlonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds at a time.Must be able to access and navigate all areas of the schools and other facilities as needed.Occasional evening or weekend events to support family engagement or professional development.Other Duties The activities, duties or responsibilities contained in this job description is not a comprehensive listing that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.Johnston Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, and transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the Johnston Public Schools to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship.
The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the human resources department at (401) 233-1900 ext. 2450.
