DEFINITION

Under general supervision, assists a certificated teacher in the instruction of students by directing various learning activities for individuals or small groups; performs a wide variety of routine clerical tasks in support of the instructional program and performs related duties as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Positions in this class are characterized by their responsibility to help students attain higher levels of scholastic achievement in the elementary grade (K through 6).

Positions are distinguished from positions in a clerical classification in that their primary responsibilities are in the realm of instructional assistance with clerical support provided to relieve the teacher of some of the clerical detail.

OCCUPATIONAL GROUP

Classified (Instructional)

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

1.         Provides individual and small group learning activities to reinforce the instructional program defined by the teacher.  Activities may include reading to students, explaining words and meanings, demonstrating arithmetic problem solving, and assisting children in the review of various subject matter.

2.         Assists in maintaining a supportive learning environment by listening to children read, leading discussions and assisting in music and art projects.

3.         Assists in developing and preparing instructional materials, including teaching aids, charts and bulletin boards; confers with teacher to identify learning needs and evaluate progress of students; assists in maintaining a neat, orderly and attractive learning environment.

4.         Assists in the supervision of students during classroom activities and on field trips; provides guidance and ensures students adhere to safety rules; directs students into appropriate social behavior through the use of positive reinforcement.

5.         Assists in recording attendance and maintaining simple records; operates simple duplicating and audio-visual equipment; distributes and maintains an inventory of classroom materials such as textbooks, paper, pencils, etc.; attends in-service training and parent conferences as required.

6. Provides vacation and temporary relief as required.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Good knowledge of:

- Practical methods used in tutoring, motivating and controlling students;

- English usage including grammar, vocabulary and spelling;

- Basic arithmetic concepts and calculations;

- Simple record keeping and filing.

Ability to:

- Learn and apply the proper methods and procedures to be followed in a variety of instructional situations;

- Communicate effectively orally and in writing using correct grammar;

- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, parents and co-workers;

- Understand and carry out oral and written instructions;

- Perform simple clerical tasks and operate standard office machines;

- Maintain confidentiality of pupil records and school reports;

- Demonstrate an understanding, patient and receptive attitude toward students.

EXPERIENCE

One year of paid or volunteer experience working with children ages 5 through 12 in an educational or child care setting.

EDUCATION

Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade.  May substitute successful completion of 30 semester units of college coursework in Child Development, Education, or related area for the required experience.

Approved:        02/24/79