PARAPROFESSIONAL
QUALIFICATIONS:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Successful experience working with children preferred.
Two (2) years of college experience or obtain a score of three (3) or higher on each section of the Work Keys assessment or approved alternative to meet highly qualified status.
Must meet background clearance requirements as specified by Alabama Statutes and State Board of Education regulations.
FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt
SUPERVISED BY: Principal, Teacher(s) assigned
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Ability to relate to and work with students and adults in a positive manner.
Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
Basic English and mathematics skills.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Basic knowledge of technology and ability to apply knowledge to assigned areas of responsibility.
Ability to perform clerical tasks.
Ability to plan and organize.
Knowledge of operation of office and audio-visual equipment.
Ability to work cooperatively with colleagues.
Ability to be flexible.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Ability to bend, squat, and lift up to fifty (50) pounds.
JOB GOAL:
To assist the teacher, student(s) and/or other school personnel by performing assigned tasks.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Assists the teacher(s) in preparing materials and equipment for direct instructional activity, including locating, copying, collating, distributing and/or grouping materials to support instructional activities planned by the teacher.
Examines short- and long-term unit plans prepared by the teacher and anticipates the need for specific supplies and materials.
Follows appropriate training and leads small group activities planned by the teacher in an atmosphere where students are actively engaged in meaningful learning experiences.
Assists the teacher in preparing for changing curriculum to meet the needs of students with diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, learning styles, and special needs.
If working with students with disabilities, become knowledgeable of the student’s disability and the appropriate instructional and behavioral strategies for that student.
If working with students with disabilities, be willing and physically able to feed, diaper, toilet, transfer a student to /from a wheelchair, and (with another adult’s assistance) lift a student.
Maintains a clean and orderly environment for students.
Manages the computer lab or computer assisted instruction in the classroom.
Assists teacher with student supervision as assigned.
Assists in maintaining the security of records, materials, and equipment.
Assists the teacher in the enforcement of classroom rules and the maintenance of appropriate records.
Assists in assessing student progress as directed, including proctoring the administration of tests and maintaining confidential records.
Provides instructional assistance as planned or coordinated by the teacher.
Communicates effectively with the staff members, students, parents, administrators, and other contact persons using tact and good judgment.
Follows attendance, punctuality, and proper dress rules.
Ensures adherence to good safety standards.
Maintains confidentiality regarding school/workplace matters.
Models and maintains high ethical standards.
Demonstrates initiative in the performance of assigned responsibilities.
Maintains expertise in assigned area to fulfill project goals and objectives.
Participates successfully in the training programs offered to increase skill and proficiency related to assignment.
Keeps supervisor informed of potential problems or unusual events.
Responds to inquiries and concerns in a timely manner.
Serves on school/system committees as required or appropriate.
Exhibits interpersonal skills to work as an effective team member.
Demonstrates support for the school system and its goals and priorities.
Demonstrates initiative in identifying potential problems or opportunities for improvement.
Prepares all required reports and maintains all appropriate records.
Participates in cross-training activities as required.
Performs other job-related tasks as assigned by supervisor.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Salary, benefits, length of work year, and hours of employment shall be established by the Board’s salary schedule.
EVALUATION:
Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board’s policy on evaluation of classified personnel.