Hybrid 25-26 SY Special Education Assistant - Philadelphia High School for Girls at The School District of Philadelphia
The School District of Philadelphia · Philadelphia, United States Of America · Hybrid
- Junior
- Office in Philadelphia
Job Summary
Assists students with various needs including behavioral needs, severe medical and/or mobility needs, who are medically fragile, and/or students with disabilities receiving special education services. Provides support and assistance to help students access the instructional program in school and community settings. Maintains a safe educational environment for students.
Essential Functions
- Records and reports appropriate data regarding academic, behavioral and/or health information and services provided to students using the appropriate service log.
- Assists students to use instructional materials and equipment.
- Provides verbal and/or written feedback of observations to the teacher.
- Works with students to reinforce instructional objectives, and implement Individualized Education Plan (IEP) goals and objectives for students with disabilities receiving special education services.
- Adapts activities, assignments and/or materials as directed by the teacher to allow students to participate in the instructional program.
- Assists in the implementation of the IEP as directed by the teacher for students with disabilities receiving special education services.
- Attends IEP or Service Plan meetings at the request of the principal, teacher and/or parent for a student with disabilities receiving special education services or a 504 Service Plan.
- Assists students with class routines and in transitioning from one activity or location to the next.
- Guides students in developing positive, appropriate interpersonal relationships with peers and adults.
- Supports students with emotional or behavioral concerns and assists in developing appropriate social skills.
- Assists in the management and shaping of student behavioral techniques and/or positive reinforcement strategies.
- Maintains a safe learning environment for students and staff.
- Monitors and assists students in educational and community settings.
- Assists students with ambulation, positioning, turning, and/or mobility within the school premises, class trips, and in the community.
- Assists students with use of mobility and/or weight-bearing equipment, such as leg braces, walkers, standers, and tricycles.
- Assists students with daily living skills, including feeding, grooming and dressing.
- Assists students with all aspects of toileting, which may include lifting on and off the toilet, diapering and the use of changing tables and mats.
- Assists students with tube feedings and/or changing colostomy bag when required as instructed by the teacher and/or school nurse.
- Monitors vital signs; monitors for seizure activity, and/or tube feedings under the direction of the school nurse.
- Administers First Aid and/or CPR whenever needed and/or required.
- Reports any change in daily physical condition for a student with severe medical/mobility needs or who is medically fragile.
- Ensures the student utilizes all needed/required safety/health equipment, such as a helmet, glasses, or hearing aid.
- Notifies the student's teacher of any equipment that may be damaged or in need of repair, such as a wheelchair or hearing aid.
- Serves as a source of information and help to any substitute teacher assigned in the absence of the regularly-assigned teacher.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
• Demonstrated knowledge of:
- the growth, development and potential educational challenges of students with disabilities.
- the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
- the types of educational disabilities and special education programs as outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
• Demonstrated ability to:
- illustrate an understanding, patient, and receptive attitude towards students of varied age groups, temperaments and abilities.
- behave and speak in a professional manner at all times.
- maintain a cooperative staff relationship with all personnel in the education setting.
- read, write and speak English.
- operate standard office equipment (e.g. computer, printer, fax machine, copier) including relevant software applications.
- maintain student confidentiality and handle information and materials with complete security.
- learn classroom procedures.
- be understanding, patient and receptive towards students of various age groups, temperaments and abilities.
- learn and apply behavior modification or management strategies, techniques and reinforcement methods.
- learn and utilize instructional materials, assistive technology and/or communication devices used by students.
- maintain accurate, complete and correct service logs for all students.
- lift, move and position a student up to age twenty-two who may weigh 150 pounds or more with the assistance from properly trained personnel and/or a mechanical lift.
- communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
- understand and follow oral and written instructions.
- establish and maintain effective working relationships.
- act calmly and appropriately in emergency situations.
Minimum Acceptable Training and Experience
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Pass the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Highly Qualified test.
Certificates//Licenses
Possession of valid certificates documenting the completion of approved training courses in First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation