What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Assistants position at Richmond Middle School?
Richmond Middle School seeks dedicated and energetic professionals to join a dynamic team of experienced educators in a high performing middle school. Enjoy full benefits, competitive compensation, a positive work environment, and a truly collegial school. Our Educational Assistants work closely with our learning teams to deliver instruction and provide innovative and creative academic, social, and behavioral support to our middle school students. You will work closely with a small number of students and teachers, working to make RMS the positive and supportive environment it is. Become a vital member of our team. Ideal candidates will thrive in a high energy, team oriented atmosphere. Multiple positions open for the 2025-26 school year. Positions start August 2025, posting will remain open until filled.
This position is governed by the HSS/NEA-NH Union Agreement. (New union agreement effective 7/1/2025 will be linked when available.)
This is a school year position with a salary range of $19.05 to $24.99 depending on education and experience.
Please visit the Information for New Hires page for details about benefits and more.
POSITION TITLE: Special Education - Support Staff
Job Description Approved By: SAU 70 School Board
Date:
01/01/2018
General Purpose:
The Special Education Assistant is employed to assist one or a small number of specific students with special needs in the educational setting. The students’ goals and objectives are re-assessed on an annual basis. The Individual Student Assistant is employed to support the special education teacher in the implementation of the student’s Individual Education Program.
Reports to:
Case Manager and Building Administrator
Supervises:
N/A
POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Except as specifically noted, the following functions are considered essential to this position:
- Assists in the delivery of instruction services outlined in the Individual Education Plan/504 Plan and further interpreted and supervised by the respective special education teacher, special education administrator, or other administrative personnel.
- Provides other services specifically outlined in the student’s Individual Education Plan/504 Plan. Provides anecdotal reports when deemed necessary.
- Serves as a resource person, if and when requested, to the Special Education Team about the student’s needs and progress.
- When necessary, assists the student to whom assigned in such physical tasks as moving from room to room, using the lavatory, and performing life skills (e.g. brushing teeth, washing hands, etc.). These tasks may include lifting.
- Alerts teacher(s) to any concerns about the student.
- Accompanies the student on field trips or to job sites, including week-long and overnight field trips.
- Recognizes that student progress and records are confidential and must be discussed only with appropriate school personnel.
- Recognizes that all communication with parents and other third parties regarding students shall not be the responsibility of the assistant and shall be conducted only by the professional staff.
- Assists teacher in maintaining appropriate classroom behavior or monitoring specific behavior management plans.
- Assists with supervisory duties including, but not limited to, recess, lunchroom, and bus.
- Participates in in-service programs, as assigned.
- Performs any other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the administration.
Evaluation: Evaluation will be completed by the Case Manager and Building Administrator prior to May 31. Evaluation will be based on professional performance and effectiveness in carrying out the responsibilities of
the position as defined.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:
At-will; non exempt
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience: Associates Degree or equivalent
Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Proficiency in English (vocabulary, spelling, grammar, reading and writing).
- Understanding or aptitude for understanding content in major curriculum areas throughout the elementary, middle and secondary levels.
LICENSURE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
NH Para-educator I or II certification preferred.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS:
Primary Physical Requirements:
(Not, Rarely, Occasionally, or Frequently Required)
1. Lift up to 10 lbs:
Frequently required
2. Lift 11 to 25 lbs:
Occasionally required
3. Lift 25 to 50 lbs:
Rarely required
4. Lift over 50 lbs:
Not required
5. Carry up to 10 lbs:
Frequently required
6. Carry 11 to 25 lbs:
Occasionally required
7. Carry 26 to 50 lbs:
Rarely required
8. Carry over 50 lbs:
Not required
9. Reach above shoulder height:
Occasionally required
10. Reach at shoulder height:
Occasionally required
11. Reach below shoulder height:
Occasionally required
12. Push/Pull:
Rarely required
Hand Manipulation:
(Not, Rarely, Occasionally, or Frequently Required)
1. Keyboarding:
Frequently required
2. Gross Manipulation:
Frequently required
3. Fine Manipulation:
Frequently required
Other Physical Consideration:
(Not, Rarely, Occasionally, or Frequently Required)
1. Twisting:
Rarely required
2. Bending:
Occasionally required
3. Crawling:
Rarely required
4. Squatting:
Rarely required
5. Kneeling:
Rarely required
6. Crouching:
Rarely required
7. Climbing:
Occasionally required
8. Balancing:
Rarely required
During the Work Day, Employee is Required to:
1. Sit:
up to 3 consecutive hours
2. Stand:
up to 3 consecutive hours
3. Walk:
up to 1 consecutive hour
Cognitive and Sensory Requirement(s):
- Effectively exchange and receive information and instructions, and respond to inquiries;
- Communicate with others;
- Observe students and staff to ensure safety
Work Environment: Inside: up to 100%
Outside: up to 20%
Work Surface(s): Office Desk, Office Chair
Carpeted floor, tile floor
Other Training, Skills and Experience Requirements:
Ability to work with staff, students, parents, and the community
Other Considerations and Requirements:
The physical demands of an employee in a special education assistant role are moderate. The employee is occasionally required to do some lifting. Employee is typically able to sit and stand as needed.
Applicants will be subjected to a criminal background check as required by state law.
Salary : $19 - $25
