TCHS: Alternative Education (CLC) Instructional Assistant, 5.0 hrs./week Start date: ASAP bei Traverse City Area Public Schools

TCCAPSA (School Year) - CLASSIFICATION IV

Master Agreement

TCCAPSA Benefits Summary - School Year

Location: Traverse City High School

General Summary:
The Instructional Assistant in the Alternative Education setting provides direct support to students working in both a traditional classroom environment and in an online learning format through the Compass Learning Center (CLC). This position assists the CLC program teacher in facilitating student success, monitoring progress, and ensuring accurate pupil accounting, including providing two-way virtual communication to a caseload of students. The Alternative Education Instructional Assistant works under the direct supervision of the CLC program teacher and reports to the Building Principal.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Instructional Support:
1. Provides direct instructional support to individual students and small groups, both in-person and virtually, reinforcing lessons and concepts as directed by the virtual curriculum and program teacher.
2. Assists students with navigating online learning platforms, accessing course materials, and utilizing digital tools.
3. Helps students to understand and complete online assignments.
4. Adapts instructional materials and strategies to meet the diverse learning needs of students, including those with learning disabilities or other challenges.
5. Monitors student progress and provides feedback to the CLC program teacher on student performance, both in the classroom and online.
6. Assists the CLC program teacher and special education teachers  in the implementation of individualized education programs (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs).
2. Virtual Learning Support and Pupil Accounting:
1. Facilitates and documents two-way virtual communication with students completing coursework in a virtual setting to ensure accurate pupil accounting and attendance records, adhering to state and district guidelines.
2. Maintains regular communication with virtual students to provide support, answer questions, and monitor their progress.
3. Provides general technical assistance to students and families regarding online learning platforms and tools.
3. Classroom Support in the Compass Learning Center (CLC):
1. Assists the CLC program teacher with classroom management, creating a positive and supportive learning environment.
2. Operates and maintains classroom equipment, including computers and other technology, as applicable. 
3. Provides general supervision and oversight to students in various settings, including the classroom, computer lab, and during transitions.
4. Communication and Collaboration:
1. Maintains open and effective communication with the CLC program teacher, building principal, students, and families.
2. Participates in staff meetings and professional development activities as required.
3. Collaborates with the CLC program teacher as applicable. 
4. Communicates student progress and any concerns to the CLC program teacher and/or building principal.
5. Other Duties:
1. Performs other duties as assigned.
2. Maintains confidentiality of student records and information.
3. Adheres to all school district policies and procedures.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

1. High school diploma or equivalent required.
2. Associate's degree or higher, preferred.
3. Experience working with students in an educational setting, preferably in an alternative education environment.
4. Experience with online learning platforms and virtual communication tools.
5. Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
6. Ability to work effectively with students with diverse needs and backgrounds.
7. Ability to follow directions and work collaboratively with the program teacher.
8. Basic computer skills and proficiency in Google Suite. Willingness to learn the district’s student information system (SIS) for two-way communication compliance. 

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Experience with specific online learning platforms used by the district.
2. Knowledge of special education procedures and practices.
3. Experience with behavior management techniques.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

1. Must be able to report on a regular and consistent basis. 
2. Ability to stand and sit for extended periods.
3. Ability to move around the classroom and school building.
4. Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
5. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
6. Sufficient vision, hearing, and speech abilities to effectively carry out assigned duties.
7. Ability to effectively discern information and formulate appropriate action(s).
8. Ability to critically think and provide appropriate solutions. 
9. Ability to work effectively and efficiently.

Environmental Conditions:

Incumbents work in indoor environments with moderate to loud noise levels. Duties may be completed in cold and hot temperatures, including work on slippery and/or uneven surfaces. Work environment includes working around students, school equipment, and office equipment. 

Work Schedules:

Must be available to report during the school year consistent with the district’s school year calendar.

Background Checks:

The individual selected for this position will be required to pass a criminal history background check. 

This job description is not intended to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities. The employee may be required to perform other duties as assigned.