Special Education Inclusion Paraprofessional

Primary Purpose:

To support the academic and behavioral success of students with disabilities in inclusive classroom settings by assisting the certified special education and general education teachers with implementing accommodations, modifications, and instructional strategies. The inclusion paraprofessional fosters a positive learning environment by promoting student engagement, independence, and social interaction in accordance with each student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

**Must apply for TEA Instructional Aid Certification**

High school diploma or GED

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Experience working with applicable age students

Experience working with students with special needs

Successful experience working in an intervention setting as well as the classroom

Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities:

• Knowledge of and ability to implement:
  • basic instructional methods and techniques of basic subjects taught in school including but not limited to: math, grammar, spelling, language and reading, punctuation and vocabulary, and ability to assist with instructional and related activities in a learning environment.
  • safe practices in classroom, playground activities and health regulations
  • district policies, rules and regulations.
• Basic data collection skills
• Ability to effectively:
  • develop rapport and interact with students
  • communicate effectively orally and in writing
  • interact and collaborate with staff, students, and families in a professional manner
  • maintain confidentiality
  • work effectively, cooperatively and respectfully with staff, parents and community members regardless of race, creed, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnic/national origin, religion, marital status, age, socio-economic status or disability

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Assist in the implementation of instructional activities under the supervision of certified teachers.
2. Support students in accessing the general education curriculum by providing appropriate accommodations and modifications.
3. Reinforce learning concepts introduced by the teacher through guided practice and small group or one-on-one support.
4. Monitor and document student progress, behavior, and participation to help guide instructional decisions.
5. Provide behavioral support and use de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and positive learning environment.
6. Facilitate social interactions and peer relationships within the classroom setting.
7. Assist with classroom organization, material preparation, and adapting instructional materials as needed.
8. Promote student independence by encouraging self-advocacy and problem-solving.
9. Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical and professional standards.
10. Collaborate with special education and general education staff to support inclusive practices and the needs of individual students.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Technology Requirements Basic word processing and spreadsheet skills. Email management skills. Skill or the ability to learn data collection tools and programming.

Working Conditions:

Mental Demands: Reading; ability to communicate effectively (verbally and written); maintain emotional control under stress to handle all types of behavior.

Physical Demands/Environment Factors: Moderate standing, stooping, bending and lifting. Able to lift more than 40lbs. Ability to provide physical care assigned for student(s). Ability to perform physical restraint as needed following correct procedures.

Other: Able to work outdoors in inclement weather (rain, cold, extreme heat, etc.)

Evaluation:

All employee's performance will be evaluated at least annually in accordance with Board Policy on Evaluation of paraprofessional personnel. Evaluation is designed to improve the quality of instruction and employee performance which may affect employment recommendations.

SEE ATTACHMENT FOR ADDITIONAL JOB INFORMATION

While all applications will be reviewed, not all applicants will be interviewed.

Seguin Independent School District does not to discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, color, national origin, sex, marital or veteran status, disability (or relationship or association with an individual with a disability), genetic information or other legally protected status in its programs, services or activities as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.