Special Ed Aide - STARS -

Walnut Springs Elementary; Dripping Springs (TX); On-site; USD 28,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Walnut Springs Elementary is seeking a Special Education Instructional Aide – STARS to support teachers and students with special needs. You will assist in implementing IEPs, modify activities, and help with self-help and behavior management under supervision.

The role involves assisting with student care, data collection, and maintaining a safe, organized learning environment in a 187-day calendar setting. Immediate start date. Salary $20.35–$26.95 per hour.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid Texas educational aide certificate before day one.
• Either 48 college hours, an associate degree, or higher.
• Paraprofessional coursework meeting approved standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare instructional materials and modify activities under teacher direction.
• Assist in implementing IEP accommodations with supervision.
• Support motor skills and instructional/physical activities as directed.
• Record academic, behavioral, and administrative data.

Skills

Special needs experience

Behavior management

Verbal & written instruction

Effective communication

General office equipment

Professional relationships

Education

High school diploma or GED

Valid Texas educational aide certificate

Two years of college (48 sem hrs)

Associate’s degree or higher

Paraprofessional course standards (e.g., Master Teacher)

Job description

Special Ed Aide - STARS -

Dripping Springs ISD Walnut Springs Elementary - Dripping Springs, Texas Open in Google Maps

Job Details

Job ID: 5972650

Application Deadline: Posted until filled

Posted: Oct 27, 2026 5:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Immediately

Job Description

Job Title: Special Education Instructional Aide – STARS (Social Training and Regulation Support)

Wage/Hour Status: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Principal and Teacher(s)

Pay Grade: Clerical/Technical 3

Calendar: 187 Days

Dept./School: Assigned Campus

Date Revised: 05/04/2023

PRIMARY PURPOSE

Help special and general education teachers provide for the needs of students with special needs in general and special education settings. Assist in implementation of classroom programs including self-help, medical/physical support, behavior management, and instruction. Work under the general supervision of the principal and the immediate direction of a certified teacher.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid Texas educational aide certificate (prior to day one in the classroom)
• Meet one of the following:
• Completion of two years of study at an institution of higher education (48 semester hours of college coursework)
• Associate’s degree or higher
• Meet rigorous standards of quality through an approved paraprofessional course of study (e.g., Master Teacher courses)

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to work with children with special needs
• Ability to work with students exhibiting behavioral challenges
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Knowledge of general office equipment
• Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain professional relationships with students, staff, and the public

Experience:

• Experience working with children with special needs preferred

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Instructional Support

1. Prepare instructional materials, including modifying and adapting classroom activities, assignments, and materials under teacher direction to support IEP objectives.
2. Instruct individual students and small groups and assist in implementing IEP accommodations under teacher supervision.
3. Support development of motor skills and assist with instructional or physical activities as directed by the teacher or related service providers.
4. Assist the teacher in recording academic, behavioral, and administrative data.

Student Support

1. Assist students with physical needs, including transferring, lifting, and positioning.
2. Assist students with self-help and personal care, including feeding, hygiene, and restroom needs.
3. Support behavior management by implementing strategies outlined in IEPs, BIPs, or as directed by the teacher.
4. Learn and adapt to individual student needs, including medical, physical, communicative, and emotional needs.
5. Monitor and support students throughout the school day in all settings, including classrooms, hallways, cafeteria, transportation, vocational sites, and outdoor areas.
6. Obtain and maintain SAMA certification if required and utilize de-escalation techniques. Perform physical containment when necessary to ensure student and staff safety.

Other

1. Maintain confidentiality regarding student and coworker information in accordance with FERPA.
2. Participate in staff development, meetings, and assigned events.
3. Follow established schedules, routines, and lesson plans.
4. Demonstrate flexibility in assignments and scheduling.
5. Assist in maintaining an organized and clean learning environment.
6. Support inventory, care, and maintenance of materials and equipment.
7. Maintain regular and consistent attendance.
8. Provide orientation and assistance to substitute teachers.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None.

MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Tools/Equipment Used: Laptop or desktop computer, copier, tablet, audiovisual equipment, assistive technology, and specialized personal care or health-related equipment.

Posture: Frequent standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, pushing, and pulling.

Motion: Frequent walking.

Lifting: Regular heavy lifting of students; ability to lift and control up to 50 pounds.

Environment: Exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases; may involve aggressive physical contact initiated by students.

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control in stressful environments.

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $20.35 to $26.95 Per Hour

Job Requirements

• Citizenship, residency or work visa required

Contact Information

• Leanna Pesta
• Email: [e-mail]