2025-26 Classroom Assistant Junior High Special Ed - Alt Curriculum

FEDERALLY FUNDED: The salary for this position may be funded through federal grants. As a federally funded role, it is considered supplemental and contingent upon the continued availability of federal funding.

ROLE & PURPOSE

To assist in the implementation of the instructional program, inclusive of academic, social emotional and functional supports for each student served via Special Education in specialized programs such as: Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE), Alternate Curriculum (AC), and Individuals with Severe and Profound Disabilities (ISPD)

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION

• High School Diploma

EXPERIENCE

• School-based experience preferred
• Valid driver's license preferred

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

I. INSTRUCTIONAL MANAGEMENT

• Take initiative to assist the teacher and other colleagues with classroom instruction and management activities, including but not limited to: one-to-one and small group instruction, classroom organization, transitions, routines, behavior shaping, communication, and assistive technology
• Provide and appropriately document assistance to students requiring health related services and supports such as, transitioning, feeding, toileting, hygiene or other health related needs, while maintaining student dignity and safety
• Deliver teacher determined support and services in assigned instructional setting or class
• Perform designated data keeping and/or instructional preparation tasks
• Supervise and instruct students in the absence of the teacher during Admission Review and Dismissal (ARD) meetings, staffings and conferences
• Supervise students during bus duty, building/playground duty, lunch duty, and co-curricular activities

II. SCHOOL/ORGANIZATIONAL CLIMATE

• Work cooperatively with principal, special education department team, special education teachers, therapists, and regular education teachers to ensure the success and safety of the students.
• Participate in specialized training to improve skills needed to successfully complete responsibilities for the specialized program assigned
• Consult with the teacher and principal on all general administration items including personnel policies

III. SCHOOL/ORGANIZATIONAL IMPROVEMENT

• Follow an established schedule provided by the teacher and approved by the principal
• Works under the direction of the teacher responsible for the instructional block of time
• Engage with students in a professional, composed, and purposeful manner, utilizing effective communication to support instruction, reinforce positive behaviors, and promote skill development

IV. ADMINISTRATION & FISCAL/FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

• Operate copy and laminating machines, computer, and audio-visual equipment
• Maintain classroom organization and cleanliness
• Take initiative to organize, store and/or prepare student learning and instructional materials
• Utilize scheduling and time management techniques in order to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position.

V. STUDENT MANAGEMENT

• Support the teacher in implementing social-emotional, academic, and functional interventions focused on positive behavior strategies
• Assist in teaching replacement behaviors through the use of reinforcement, appropriate consequences, visual supports, and structured systems that promote student learning and success
• Assist the teacher in managing student behaviors involving physical aggression by supporting relationship-building efforts, implementing de-escalation strategies, and, when necessary, applying safe and approved physical restraint procedures in accordance with district guidelines
• Assist the teacher in safe lifting and transfer procedures for students
• SHARS / MAC / RMTS: Participate in the district's Medicaid initiatives. Arlington ISD participates in the School Health and Related Services (SHARS) and MAC programs, which allows the district to request Medicaid reimbursement for certain health-related services provided. The ARD/IEP committee determines SHARS services
• SHARS Providers: Train, provide, and document billable SHARS/direct medical services provided to students with SHARS services ordered in their IEP
• RMTS: If selected, participate in Random Moment in Time Study (RMTS).
• MAC: Directly support the provision of services covered under the Texas Medicaid State Plan; provide or supervise direct medical services/care such as personal care, medical care, escorting, and/or feeding of students as stated in the IEP

VI. SCHOOL/COMMUNITY RELATIONS

• Assist with community learning experiences, field trips, and necessary interpretation (if appropriate)
• Maintain confidentiality of student information, disabilities, and services

VII. PROFESSIONAL GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT

• Engage in ongoing professional development aligned with the needs of students with disabilities and the specific responsibilities of the designated specialized support roles
• Attend scheduled staff and in-service meetings
• Stay abreast of current research in the field of education
• Attend required conferences and training

VIII. OTHER DUTIES

• Any other responsibilities as designated by the supervisor, Campus Principal and/or Director of Special Education.

IX. WORKING CONDITIONS

MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

• Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment, including computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment.
• Posture: Moderate standing; occasional kneeling, squatting, bending, and stooping
• Motion: Moderate walking
• Lifting: While performing these duties, the employee may frequently be required to lift and or move at least 50 pounds of materials, or lift children from wheelchairs, onto changing tables, etc.
• Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise
• Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress.