Teaching Assistant-Achievement Academy

JOB SUMMARY:
This position is accountable assisting certified staff with direct instructional support and the general supervision and management of students.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Valid Illinois Paraprofessional License registered in Lake County.
Ideal candidate will have experience working in a life skills classroom.

SALARY RANGE:
Starting at $21.98/hr

HOURS/DAYS:
10-Month Position

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of and respect for the diverse backgrounds (cultural, linguistic, environmental) of students and how these characteristics affect the student's life and learning;
• Knowledge of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Response to Intervention (RtI);
• Knowledge of relevant laws, rules, regulations, and Board policies and District procedures;
• Knowledge of the similarities and differences between cognitive, communicative, physical, social, and emotional needs of students and the factors that influence these different needs;
• Oral and written communication skills;
• Interpersonal and social skills;
• Ability to apply the principles of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Response to Intervention (RtI);
• Ability to assist and reinforce elements that support a safe, healthy, and effective teaching and learning environment;
• Ability to assist in adapting instructional strategies and materials according to the needs of the student, under the direction of a teacher;
• Ability to be sensitive and respectful in communications regarding all children and families, regardless of differences in cultural heritage, lifestyle, values, and home environment;
• Ability to collect and record performance data on students under the direction of a licensed teacher, while respecting student confidentiality and the laws regarding ethical practices of assessment;
• Ability to collect objective and accurate information on student behavior to be provided to licensed professionals, as appropriate and directed by a licensed teacher;
• Ability to draw on knowledge and resources regarding a variety of developmental and age-appropriate instructional methods, techniques, and materials when supporting the instruction of the licensed teacher;
• Ability to effectively employ a variety of strategies that reinforce positive behavior;
• Ability to establish and maintain rapport with students;
• Ability to follow oral and written direction of licensed teachers, seeking clarification as needed;
• Ability to participate as a member of the educational team when requested to attend conferences with families or primary caregivers, with an understanding of some of the concerns of parents;
• Ability to prepare and organize materials to support teaching and learning, as directed by a licensed teacher;
• Ability to reinforce the development of student social skills by using appropriate strategies to modify the environment;
• Ability to use ethical practices for confidential communication about students;
• Ability to use strategies that promote the student's independence;
• Ability to utilize learning styles theory in supporting instructional practices;
• Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Assists students with physical needs (toileting, eating, dressing, lifting required);
• Assists the teacher in observing, recording, and charting behavior;
• Assists the teacher with crisis problems and behavior management;
• Assists with group educational activities that include students on Individualized Education Plans (IEPs);
• Carries out tutoring activities designed by the teacher that include students on IEPs;
• Confers and plans with teachers related to classroom and/or IEP objectives and/or modifications, and provides documentation;
• Maintains classroom (whiteboards, etc.);
• Manages students (including those on IEPs);
• Monitors supplementary work and independent study that include students on IEPs;
• Participates in professional activities and meetings;
• Prepares classroom materials including those related to IEPs or modifications/accommodations;
• Prepares the classroom environment for learning activities;
• Provides assistance with individualized programmed materials;
• Supervises children in the hallway, lunchroom, playground, and on field trips;
• Supports instruction for individual students (one-on-one or small group), including those on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) under the direction of the supervising teacher;
• Works with audio-visual equipment, computers and/or assistive technology as related to IEP accommodations and modifications;
• Works with teachers to develop classroom schedule;
• May transport students in District vehicles, when requested;
• Performs other related duties as required.