Instructional Assistant, Special Education Self-Contained

Mcallen-Independent-School-District; McAllen (TX); On-site; USD 21,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

McAllen Independent School District Cathey Middle School in McAllen, Texas seeks an Instructional Assistant for Special Education Self-Contained to support the classroom teacher and provide curriculum activities aiding growth for special education students.

Starting immediately, the paraprofessional will assist with behavior management, supervision, and instructional materials, including small-group work, and classroom readiness in a high-demand setting.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate degree or at least 48 college hours required.
• Paraprofessional Certification preferred (required upon employment).

Responsibilities

• Assist teacher in daily classroom operations.
• Support behavior management and medical needs of students.
• Supervise students throughout the day.
• Assist with planning and preparation of instructional materials.
• Work with small groups to reinforce material.
• Follow McAllen ISD customer service standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Skills

Reading & writing

Communication skills

Behavior management

Student supervision

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Associate degree or 48 college hours

Paraprofessional Certification

Job description

Instructional Assistant, Special Education Self-Contained

McAllen Independent School District Cathey Middle School - McAllen, Texas

Job Details

Job ID: 5917324

Application Deadline: Posted until filled

Posted: Sep 08, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Description

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

To assist the classroom teacher in providing curriculum activities and experiences designed to their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical and social growth of all special education students

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

High School Diploma or equivalent, required

Associate degree or a minimum of 48 college hours, required

Paraprofessional Certification, preferred (required upon employment)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Ability to read, write, and comprehend simple instructions; ability to work with emotionally, physically and/or mentally impaired students; ability to maintain composure under stressful conditions; and ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing

Basic computer skills performed, preferred

Experience:

Background in working with special needs children or adults, preferred

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• 1. Assist teacher in daily classroom operations and help provide a supportive learning environment.
• 2. Assist with behavior management and medical needs of students.
• 3. Assist in supervising students throughout the workday.
• 4. Feed or help students feed themselves.
• 5. Assist with special toileting needs.
• 6. Monitor students to and from buses, in cafeteria, in inclusion classrooms and in hallways to and from activities.
• 7. Sanitize room and equipment.
• 8. Assist teachers in planning and preparation of instructional materials.
• 9. Under supervision of the special education teacher, work with small groups of students to reinforce material initially introduced by the teacher.
• 10. Follow McAllen ISD customer service standards.
• 11. Perform other duties as assigned by immediate supervisor (primary evaluator).

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

EQUIPMENT USED:

Computer, copiers, multimedia equipment, and other office or classroom machines

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands:

Ability to make rational decisions under stressful circumstances; deal with special needs children in a caring, supportive, but non-emotional manner

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Ability to lift or move at least 40 pounds and push over 100 pounds; must be able to work in a noisy environment; ability to provide for sanitation needs and student hygiene; assist in restraining students in crisis situations.

Days:187

Hourly Pay Range:

Minimum: $15.50

Maximum: $21.40

Note:Starting pay for a new hire in a pay range plan will be determined indvidually based on each person's job-related experience and salaries paid to peer employees in the same position with similar experience.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $15.50 to $21.40 Per Hour

Job Categories:

Instructional Support > Paraprofessional / IA

Job Requirements

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required

Contact Information

• Miguel Herrera , Principal
• Cathey Middle School
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]