Educational Assistant – Special Education

Reports To

• Building Principal

General Job Description

Assists the Special Education teacher with daily instructional and non-instructional classroom activities to support student learning, behavior, personal care, and classroom management.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Instructional Support

• Assist with small-group instruction and tutoring at the teacher’s request.
• Support students in completing classroom tasks and activities.
• Use appropriate instructional techniques, strategies, and materials.
• Maintain student engagement in assigned learning activities.
• Communicate accurate and current information to students in ways that support learning.

Classroom & Behavioral Support

• Assist the teacher in maintaining classroom discipline and routine.
• Follow prescribed behavioral management programs.
• Assist with classroom organization and daily operations.
• Assemble and maintain bulletin boards and classroom displays.
• Sanitize classroom areas and equipment using approved cleaning materials.

Student Personal Care & Physical Assistance

• Assist students with:
• • Personal hygiene
  • Toileting
  • Tooth brushing
  • Hand washing
  • Feeding skills
• Assist with physical therapy functions as directed.
• Lift or assist students transferring from wheelchairs to changing tables or designated areas.
• Escort students to and from various school locations as needed.

Supervision & Safety

• Supervise students on school grounds as assigned.
• Be responsible for students during field trips and school activities.
• Report suspected child abuse or neglect.
• Take precautions to protect equipment, materials, and school facilities.
• Complete assigned supervisory duties such as:
• • Hall duty
  • Bus duty
  • Playground supervision

Communication & Professional Responsibilities

• Cooperate with administration, parents, teachers, and coworkers.
• Demonstrate positive public relations and communication skills.
• Use appropriate conflict resolution strategies.
• Manage time effectively and complete assignments independently.
• Serve as a positive role model within the school environment.
• Complete additional duties assigned by the teacher, principal, supervisor, or superintendent.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervise students assigned to the classroom and related activities.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma
• Valid New Mexico Educational Assistant License
• Ability to pass employment verification

Preferred

• Experience working with exceptional populations or special education students

Physical Requirements

• Sitting, standing, walking, reaching, climbing, kneeling, and squatting
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to assist with lifting and transferring students
• Ability to move light furniture as needed

Safety and Health Requirements

• Child Abuse/Substance Abuse Workshop
• Bloodborne Pathogens Standard Training

Equipment/Materials Used

• Multi-media and classroom technology equipment
• Laminator
• Copier
• Audiovisual equipment
• Other educational technology as required

Work Environment

• Indoor and outdoor work assignments
• Exposure to varying:
• • Noise levels
  • Temperatures
  • Air quality conditions
• Frequent interruptions during the workday
• Requires flexibility, patience, and self-motivation
• Occasional after-hours work may be required

Terms of Employment

• Salary and work year established by the Board.