Alternative Programs (Achievement Academy) Teaching Assistant

OB 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 $22.73/hr

HOURS/DAYS:
10-Month Position

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

1. Knowledge of and respect for the diverse backgrounds (cultural, linguistic, environmental) of students and how these characteristics affect the student’s life and learning;
2. Knowledge of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Response to Intervention (RtI);
3. Knowledge of relevant laws, rules, regulations, and Board policies and District procedures;
4. Knowledge of the similarities and differences between cognitive, communicative, physical, social, and emotional needs of students and the factors that influence these different needs;
5. Oral and written communication skills;
6. Interpersonal and social skills;
7. Ability to apply the principles of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Response to Intervention (RtI);
8. Ability to assist and reinforce elements that support a safe, healthy, and effective teaching and learning environment;
9. Ability to assist in adapting instructional strategies and materials according to the needs of the student, under the direction of a teacher;
10. Ability to be sensitive and respectful in communications regarding all children and families, regardless of differences in cultural heritage, lifestyle, values, and home environment;
11. 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;
12. Ability to collect objective and accurate information on student behavior to be provided to licensed professionals, as appropriate and directed by a licensed teacher;
13. 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;
14. Ability to effectively employ a variety of strategies that reinforce positive behavior;
15. Ability to establish and maintain rapport with students;
16. Ability to follow oral and written direction of licensed teachers, seeking clarification as needed;
17. 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;
18. Ability to prepare and organize materials to support teaching and learning, as directed by a licensed teacher;
19. Ability to reinforce the development of student social skills by using appropriate strategies to modify the environment;
20. Ability to use ethical practices for confidential communication about students;
21. Ability to use strategies that promote the student’s independence;
22. Ability to utilize learning styles theory in supporting instructional practices;
23. Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

1. Assists students with physical needs (toileting, eating, dressing, lifting required);
2. Assists the teacher in observing, recording, and charting behavior;
3. Assists the teacher with crisis problems and behavior management;
4. Assists with group educational activities that include students on Individualized Education Plans (IEPs);
5. Carries out tutoring activities designed by the teacher that include students on IEPs;
6. Confers and plans with teachers related to classroom and/or IEP objectives and/or modifications, and provides documentation;
7. Maintains classroom (whiteboards, etc.);
8. Manages students (including those on IEPs);
9. Monitors supplementary work and independent study that include students on IEPs;
10. Participates in professional activities and meetings;
11. Prepares classroom materials including those related to IEPs or modifications/accommodations;
12. Prepares the classroom environment for learning activities;
13. Provides assistance with individualized programmed materials;
14. Supervises children in the hallway, lunchroom, playground, and on field trips;
15. 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;
16. Works with audio-visual equipment, computers and/or assistive technology as related to IEP accommodations and modifications;
17. Works with teachers to develop classroom schedule;
18. May transport students in District vehicles, when requested;
19. Performs other related duties as required.