Paraeducator - Severely Handicapped

CLASS TITLE:PARAEDUCATOR SPECIALIST-SEVERELY HANDICAPPED BASIC FUNCTION: Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, perform a variety of duties pertaining to the care and instruction of severely handicapped students; assist in instructing students individually or in small groups in accordance with prescribed learning objectives; assist in meeting special needs, including feeding, toileting, positioning and monitoring health conditions; assist in the preparation of instructional materials and provide routine clerical support. REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES: ESSENTIAL DUTIES: Tutor individual or small groups of severely handicapped students according to prescribed learning objectives, reinforcing instruction as directed by the teacher; monitor and oversee student drills, practices and assignments in various subjects; assist in the development and implementation of Individual Education Plans and behavior management plans. Lift students in and out of wheelchairs, braces and other orthopedic equipment and position pupils; assist students during mealtimes; take appropriate action when students have difficulty while eating; assist students with developing motor skills and related exercises as directed. Assist students with performing and developing independent living skills; assist students with personal hygiene including brushing teeth, dressing, undressing, bathing and grooming; assist students with eating habits, table manners and household chores; toilet students and change diapers and soiled clothing as needed; assist students with developing social skills. Provide classroom support to the teacher by setting up work areas and displays and distributing and collecting paper, supplies and materials; confer with teachers concerning lesson plans and materials to meet student needs; present instructional materials. Assist students in completing classroom assignments, homework and projects; assure student understanding of classroom rules and procedures; assist students by answering questions, providing proper examples, emotional support, friendly attitude and general guidance; assist students with identifying and learning numbers, letters, shapes and colors. Greet students at the bus; push students in wheelchairs. Perform a variety of clerical duties such as preparing instructional materials, duplicating materials, preparing lists and other documents, processing forms and applications, taking role and maintaining records and files. Perform routine first aid; maintain daily documentation of specialized physical health care services and procedures as directed. Observe and control behavior of students in the classroom and during outdoor activities according to approved procedures; report progress regarding student performance and behavior. Operate a variety of medical equipment including orthopedic equipment; operate a variety of office and classroom equipment including a copier, laminator, typewriter, computer and assigned software. Assure the health and safety of students by following established practices and procedures; maintain learning environment in a safe, orderly and clean manner; clean, set up, and set out toys and instructional materials; clean tables, floors and dishes as assigned. Communicate with District personnel and outside agencies to exchange information and resolve issues or concerns related to student health, behavior and progress. OTHER DUTIES: Attend assigned meetings and conferences. Perform related duties as assigned. KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES: KNOWLEDGE OF: Child guidance principles and practices related to children with special education needs. Safe practices in classroom and playground activities. Basic subjects taught in District schools, including arithmetic, grammar, spelling, language and reading. Problems and concerns of students with special needs. Basic instructional methods and techniques. Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary. Classroom procedures and appropriate student conduct. Operation of standard office and classroom equipment including a computer and assigned software. Oral and written communication skills. Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy. Basic record-keeping techniques. First aid procedures. ABILITY TO: Perform a variety of duties pertaining to the care and instruction of severely handicapped students. Assist in instructing students individually or in small groups in accordance with prescribed learning objectives. Assist in meeting special needs, including feeding, toileting, positioning and monitoring health conditions. Demonstrate an understanding, patient and receptive attitude toward severely handicapped children. Assist in the preparation of instructional materials. Learn methods, techniques and procedures for lifting and moving children. Understand and follow oral and written directions. Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Monitor, observe and report student behavior and progress according to approved policies and procedures. Operate a variety of medical equipment. Operate standard office and classroom equipment including a computer and assigned software. Observe health and safety regulations. Perform clerical duties related to classroom activities. Maintain routine records. Administer first aid. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: This Class must meet the requirements of the Federal and State “No Child Left Behind” NCLB legislation. Qualifications are any combination equivalent to 48 semester units of college study or an AA Degree or upon passing a NCLB qualifying written examination, and some experience working with severely handicapped children in an organized setting. LICENSES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Valid First Aid Certificate issued by an authorized agency. WORKING CONDITIONS: ENVIRONMENT: Classroom and playground environment. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate standard office and classroom equipment. Sitting or standing for extended periods of time. Bending at the waist, kneeling or crouching to assist students. Seeing to read a variety of materials and monitor student activities. Hearing and speaking to exchange information. Lifting and carrying students. Pushing children in wheelchairs. HAZARDS: Exposure to bodily fluids, blood borne pathogens and infectious diseases. Contact with dissatisfied or abusive individuals.

Salary : $34 - $37