Early Childhood Special Education Teacher Assistant

Title: Early Childhood Special Education Assistant (ECSE-A) Qualifications: • High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree or completion of a paraprofessional certification program preferred. • Experience with young children with disabilities strongly preferred. • Basic understanding of child development and early childhood special education. • Ability to follow direction, remain flexible, and demonstrate patience in a dynamic educational setting. • Willingness to be trained in behavior strategies, data collection, and early intervention techniques. Reports To: Director of Special Education or Designee Location: Pikes Peak BOCES – Member District Preschool and Early Elementary Settings Job Summary: The Early Childhood Special Education Assistant (ECSE-A) supports the implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for children ages birth through eight in preschool and early elementary settings. This role involves working directly with students with disabilities to provide individualized instructional, behavioral, and developmental support under the supervision of licensed staff. The ECSE Assistant also collaborates with team members to foster inclusive and supportive environments for young learners. All work is carried out in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Colorado Exceptional Children’s Educational Act (ECEA), and PPBOCES policies and procedures. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Instructional & Student Support 1. Assist in the delivery of specially designed instruction as outlined in students' IEPs under the direction of the ECSE Teacher or related service providers. 2. Support the development of foundational academic, social-emotional, motor, communication, and adaptive skills. 3. Implement classroom accommodations, modifications, and behavior support plans. 4. Provide 1:1 or small group instructional and behavioral support. 5. Assist in the preparation and organization of instructional materials. Behavioral & Emotional Support 6. Support students in managing challenging behaviors using trauma-informed and positive behavior intervention strategies. 7. Collaborate with staff to implement social-emotional learning and regulation strategies. 8. Collect behavior and progress monitoring data as needed. June 2023 Daily Routines & Health Support 9. Assist students with personal care, feeding, toileting, and hygiene needs in a respectful and developmentally appropriate manner. 10. Monitor student safety and well-being in all environments including the classroom, playground, cafeteria, and during transitions. Team Collaboration & Communication 11. Communicate as appropriate with the ECSE Teacher and other service providers regarding student progress and needs. 12. Maintain confidentiality regarding student information and records. 13. Participate in team meetings, trainings, and professional development activities related to early childhood and special education as invited and as appropriate. Administrative & Program Support 14. Support preparation for IEP meetings by helping with data collection and observations. 15. Maintain accurate logs and documentation as assigned. 16. Perform other duties as assigned by the Special Education Director or Designee. Work Environment & Physical Requirements: • Work is performed in preschool classrooms and other educational environments. • Physical demands may include lifting up to 50 pounds, assisting with physical care, and engaging in floor-based play or instruction. Evaluation: Performance will be evaluated annually by the Special Education Director or Designee in alignment with PPBOCES policies and expectations for paraprofessional staff. Salary, Working Time, Vacation, Etc.: This position shall be 154 or 179 days (unless otherwise stated on the contract) per year based on the calendar(s) of the school district(s) to which you are assigned, with earned leave in accordance with Board policy. Travel to each of school districts on a weekly basis is required. The salary shall be determined by education and experience in accordance with the BOCES Salary Schedule. Contracts are on an annual basis and are subject to renewal or nonrenewal at the discretion of the Board. Working Conditions: • Talking and hearing, walking, standing or bending is frequently required • Reaching with hands and arms, climbing or balancing, stooping or kneeling is also required • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move objects up to 25 pounds • Travel to assigned job site(s) requires driving. Employee may be asked to drive to any member district at any time using personal or BOCES vehicle. Reimbursement is in accordance with board policy. • All required license(s) must be maintained in an active status without suspension or revocation throughout employment. June 2023 • Any employee may be required to stay at or return to work during meetings and/or emergencies to perform duties specific to this classification or to perform other duties as requested in an assigned position. This may require working a non-traditional work schedule or working outside normal assigned duties during the meeting and/or emergency. Employment Type: Full Time Salary: $40,000 - $54,000 Annual Bonus/Commission: No