Special Education Paraprofessional/Teaching Assistant

ARLINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Arlington, MA 02476

The Arlington Public Schools are committed to creating an inclusive and safe learning and working environment that reflects a diversity of perspectives, values, and experiences. We welcome staff who are aware of the role that bias and prejudice play in society, are creative and willing to try new approaches, and are reflective about their daily practice. We are looking for candidates who welcome a challenge, are eager to collaborate and contribute to the success of students, are ready to engage in two-way partnership with families, and who will contribute their diverse talents to the organization as a whole.

JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION: SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHING ASSISTANT

JOB GOAL: The Special Education Teaching Assistant will support general and special educators by working with students in general education and special education settings to enable them to access the curriculum. Some Teaching Assistants will be needed to work one on one with particular students.

This position will specifically work with one student for most of the day, but may work with other students in other situations or as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Associates Degree or Bachelor’s Degree Preferred

Experience working with children

Ability to coordinate with and work as a member of a team that includes Principal, Classroom Teacher, Special Educators, other building staff, related service personnel, clinicians and parents

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Assists with classroom management in substantially separate and/or inclusion classroom

Implements behavior management plans as written

Assists with crisis management plans, including physical management per behavior management protocols when required

Establishes emotionally supportive rapport with students

Travels to general education classes with students as needed

Accurately implements content, instructional and performance modifications as designed by the classroom teacher

Ensures information is shared between teachers when assistant is primary support person or other organizational meetings, as well as professional development as determined by principal and or special education department

Greets students upon arrival to school, assists with student dismissal and debriefs with teacher at the end of the day

Performs other duties as delineated by teacher or other supervisor

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 183 Days

REPORTS TO: Special Education Coordinators and Building Principals

SALARY/BENEFITS: According to paraprofessional contract. Eligible for benefits including health insurance, dental insurance and life insurance and Town of Arlington Retirement System.