Senior Instructional Assistant - Special Needs & Inclusion

Connolly Middle School; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 21,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Connolly Middle School is seeking an Instructional Assistant Senior – Special Needs, Personal to support special education teachers in implementing IEPs and assisting students with personal needs in a 189-day school year. The role includes adapting lessons, managing classroom routines, and ensuring a safe learning environment within the Tempe campus.

The position requires high school diploma or GED equivalency, IVP fingerprint clearance, and flexibility to work with diverse learners.

Qualifications

• Education/experience equivalent to a High School Diploma or GED.
• AA degree, or 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university, or a passing score on the ParaPro Assessment (preferred).
• State of Arizona Identity Verified (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card.
• Three (3) years of experience working with special needs children (preferred).
• Ability to obtain certification in Nonviolent Physical Crisis Intervention, CPR, and First Aid.
• Special training in the use of adaptive equipment (may be required upon hire).
• Ability to speak fluent Spanish (preferred).

Responsibilities

• Assists teacher with instructions, creation of classroom materials and classroom set up.
• Assist teacher in meeting individualized educational plan (I.E.P.) goals.
• Assist and accompany student for inclusion in regular classroom.
• Aid student with personal hygiene, including changing diapers and assisting with toilet training.
• Assist students in proper use of eating utensils and cafeteria behavior.
• Assist occupational therapist and speech therapist with teaching student as required.
• Provide a safe environment for special education students in which to learn.
• Works with students on a variety of subjects or in one‑on‑one or small group instruction.
• Monitor and supervise students in classroom, playground and cafeteria settings; utilize District behavior modification program as needed.
• Prepare instructional materials and visual aids; photo copies materials and documents.
• Prepare workstations or learning centers for children to work on daily lessons.
• Assist students with learning reading, writing and math skills.
• Assist in administering District and State tests.
• Assess student needs and modify lessons to provide appropriate help; document student progress.
• Collaborate with teachers to ensure lessons are appropriate for student.
• Organize and maintain teaching materials.
• Organize and file student work; plan for daily activities to meet specific needs of each child.
• May oversee class as required in teacher’s absence.
• Attend educational training as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Job description

Connolly Middle School is seeking an Instructional Assistant Senior – Special Needs, Personal to support special education teachers in implementing IEPs and assisting students with personal needs in a 189-day school year. The role includes adapting lessons, managing classroom routines, and ensuring a safe learning environment within the Tempe campus.

The position requires high school diploma or GED equivalency, IVP fingerprint clearance, and flexibility to work with diverse learners.