Instructional Assistant/Sped Para
Yellowstone College Prep
Reports to: Director of Special Populations
Full-time/Non-exempt
10-Months
Qualifications and Education Requirements
Associate's Degree: one year of experience as an educational aide/paraprofessional at Texas district or charter school - preferred
Essential Duties
The Instructional Assistant will work alongside the Director of Special Populations to provide assistance with the following:
- All elements of daily instruction in the classroom
- Monitoring student behavior/discipline for the whole class, small groups of students, and individual student redirection
- Observing and evaluating student’s academic and social/emotional growth and development
- Lesson planning and preparation of classroom materials, activities, and centers (including making copies)
- Transitioning students during arrival, lunch, and dismissal
- Planning and facilitating intervention instruction as determined as directed by the admin team
- As needed and assigned, serve as the lead instructor or assistant for ancillary classes or other “specialist” blocks
- As needed and assigned, serve as the substitute instructor for content classes
- Perform other duties as required and assigned
Professional Growth and Development
- Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents, and community members.
- Participate in staff development activities to improve job-related skills.
- Keep informed of and comply with state and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers.
- Attend and actively participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees, as needed.
- Participate in an instructional culture that values feedback, seeks out growth opportunities, fosters innovation, and always puts student achievement first.
- Perform other duties as required and assigned.
Physical Effort
This position may require prolonged periods of walking, standing, sitting, stooping, keyboarding, fine and gross manipulation, kneeling and speaking.
Yellowstone Values
Every employee at Yellowstone is committed to our PRIDE values.
Positivity: At Yellowstone, we smile first. We are a positive presence on campus and extend a good-natured grace and enthusiasm in all personal interactions.
Responsibility: We follow through on our promises and commitments. We own our actions and will never settle for less than our best effort.
Integrity: We demonstrate integrity in all circumstances and always put the best interests of the Yellowstone community first. We “walk the talk” and lead by example.
Determination: We anticipate and overcome challenges. We are resilient in the face of obstacles and are committed to the success of every member of the Yellowstone community.
Excellence: We hold everyone (families, students, colleagues) to the highest standard of excellence and constantly look for ways to enhance the Yellowstone experience.
YELLOWSTONE SCHOOLS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. IT IS OUR POLICY THAT ALL APPLICANTS BE CONSIDERED SOLELY ON THE BASIS OF QUALIFICATIONS AND ABILITY, WITHOUT REGARD TO RACE, COLOR, SEX, AGE, NATIONAL ORIGIN, DISABILITY, GENETIC INFORMATION OR VETERAN STATUS.
Job Title: Instructional Assistant/Sped Para
Location: [Yellowstone Schools]
Reports to: Special Education Teacher
Job Summary:
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Instructional Assistant/Sped Para to support students with special needs in a classroom setting. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of individualized education plans (IEPs) and experience working with diverse learner populations. The Instructional Assistant/Sped Para will work closely with the Special Education Teacher to provide differentiated instruction and support to students in order to help them achieve their academic and social goals.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Support students with special needs in a variety of classroom settings, including one-on-one and small group instruction.
2. Assist Special Education Teacher in implementing IEPs and modifying curriculum to meet individual student needs.
3. Provide behavioral support and assistance with social skills development.
4. Assist students with adaptive technology and assistive devices, as needed.
5. Collaborate with classroom teachers and other staff members to ensure seamless integration of special education students into the general education setting.
6. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student progress and behavior.
7. Foster a positive and supportive learning environment for all students.
8. Communicate regularly with parents and guardians about student progress and collaborate on strategies for supporting students at home.
9. Attend trainings and professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in special education.
10. Perform other duties as assigned by the Special Education Teacher or school administration.
Qualifications:
1. High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in education or related field preferred.
2. Experience working with individuals with disabilities, particularly in a school setting.
3. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
4. Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team of educators and support staff.
5. Patience, flexibility, and a positive attitude towards supporting students with special needs.
6. CPR and first aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
7. Ability to pass a background check.
This is a full-time position with competitive pay and benefits. If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students with special needs, we encourage you to apply for the Instructional Assistant/Sped Para position at our school.
