Under supervision, performs a variety of specialized instruction, personal services and routine clerical duties to free the teacher from routine work; performs related work as required. CLASS CHARACTERISTICS Positions in this class are established to assist a teacher in providing students with direct instruction and personal services to compensate for special learning and behavior needs. Incumbents perform their tasks with initiative and independent judgment within a limited number of standardized procedures. EXAMPLES OF DUTIES Assists regular or special education staff in the implementation of individual education plans for students with special learning, physical and behavior needs by providing direct instruction in following procedures established by the regular or special education staff; assists individual students and small groups of students to reinforce and follow-up learning activities; monitors and assists students in drill, practice and study activities as a follow-up to the presentation of instructional concepts by the regular or special education staff; directs students into safe learning activities/functions and assists in shaping of appropriate social behaviors; assists and instructs and supervises students on field trips, vocational settings, and community outings; assists in the management of student behavior techniques; directs class activities when the regular or special education staff is not present utilizing established procedures; supervises the activities of special education students to and from the bus, on the playground, in the cafeteria, and in the community; prepares and assists in the preparation of a variety of specialized instructional materials and learning aids for use with individuals or small groups of students with special learning, physical and/or behavior needs; assists in the development and maintenance of student records and files; operates various office equipment; observes and records student behaviors and other significant data; requisitions, stores, distributes and maintains an inventory of educational materials, supplies and equipment; assembles collects, catalogues and distributes resource materials to students designed to meet their individual learning needs; assists in the development and maintenance of a learning environment appropriate to the special needs of students; may perform duties related to the personal cleanliness and toileting of students, and independent living skills; takes accurate lecture notes, organizes material, administers tests and performs research work in the school library; performs related work as required. Knowledge of: The general needs, behavior and emotional needs of students with special learning problems and physical impairments; Classroom strategies utilized with students experiencing special learning needs; Behavior management techniques; Correct English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation; Basic mathematical concepts; The operation of office equipment including a computer. Ability to: Demonstrate an empathetic, patient and receptive attitude with students exhibiting specialized learning and behavior needs; Exercise sound, independent judgment when unacceptable or unsafe behavior is exhibited by students; Understand and follow specific student education plans; Have a well-developed relationship with students; Understand and follow oral and written directions; Work with individual and small groups of students; Establish and maintain effective relationships with adults and children; Communicate effectively orally and in writing; Make mathematical calculations with speed and accuracy; Operate a computer and other office equipment; Perform routine clerical work. Experience: None required. Education: Graduation from High School or GED required. Completion of at least two years of study (48 units) at an institution of higher education, or Associates or higher degree highly desirable. Physical Requirement: The ability to pass a physical examination deemed appropriate by the District and perform the physical demands of the position.