BASIC FUNCTION: Under the direction of school site principal and Director of Special Education, assist a certificated teacher in reinforcing instruction to individual or small groups of special education students in a classroom; assist in the preparation of instructional materials and implementation of instructional activities; perform related clerical duties as assigned. REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES: ESSENTIAL DUTIES: Assist a certificated teacher in reinforcing instruction to individual or small groups of special education students in a classroom environment; monitor and oversee student drills, practices and assignments in various subjects; confer with the teacher concerning instructional activities and materials to meet student needs. Assist students in completing classroom assignments, homework and projects in assigned subject areas; assure student understanding of classroom rules and procedures; assist students by answering questions, providing proper examples, emotional support, friendly attitude and general guidance. Read books to students and observe their reading abilities as assigned; assist students with letter and word pronunciation and recognition as required; assist students with spelling and writing exercises and assignments. Perform a variety of clerical duties in support of classroom activities such as preparing, typing, duplicating and filing instructional materials; record grades as assigned; order supplies as required; schedule and arrange activities as needed. Observe and control behavior of students in the classroom according to established policies and procedures; monitor students during outdoor, field trip, eating and various other activities as assigned; monitor and report progress regarding student performance and behavior. Assist students with performing and developing independent living and self-help skills as assigned by the position; assist students with personal hygiene including bathing and grooming; assist students with eating activities; toilet students and change diapers and soiled clothing as needed. Explain and assure student understanding of classroom assignment and homework instructions; assist assigned teacher with the implementation of lesson plans and instructional activities; assist in administering and monitor students during tests as assigned. Assist with the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEP’s) and related goals and objectives as assigned; assist students with meeting IEP goals and objectives as required. Maintain various records and files related to students, schedules, performance, progress, attendance, IEP’s and assigned activities as required. Accompany and assist students in mainstreamed classes as assigned by the position; take notes for students as required. Assure the health and safety of students by following health and safety practices and procedures; maintain classroom and other assigned areas in a safe, orderly and clean manner. Assist students with physical therapy and related exercises as assigned by the position; escort students to and from buses and classes as assigned; push student wheelchairs; lift students in and out of wheelchairs; load and unload students on and off of buses as assigned. Operate a variety of classroom and office equipment such as a laminator, copier, stapler, paper cutter, hole puncher, computer and assigned software. Provide classroom support to the teacher by setting up work areas, decorations and displays, and distributing and collecting paper, supplies and materials; prepare and assemble instructional packets and study guides as assigned. Attend and participate in various meetings and in-services as assigned. Communicate with students in English and a designated second language to facilitate the learning process as assigned by the position; provide oral and written translation between teachers, parents, staff and others as required; translate notes, letters and other materials as needed. Provide routine first aid to injured students according to established procedures as assigned by the position. OTHER DUTIES: Perform related duties as assigned. KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES: KNOWLEDGE OF: Child guidance principles and practices related to children with special education needs. Problems and concerns of students with special needs. Safe practices in classroom and outdoor activities. Basic subjects taught in District schools, including arithmetic, grammar, spelling, language and reading. Basic instructional methods and techniques. Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary. Classroom procedures and appropriate student conduct. Operation of standard office and classroom equipment. Oral and written communication skills. Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy. Record-keeping and filing techniques. ABILITY TO: Assist with instruction and related activities in a classroom environment. Reinforce instruction to individual or small groups of special education students as directed by the teacher. Assist in the preparation of instructional materials and implementation of instructional activities. Perform a variety of clerical duties including typing, filing and duplicating materials. Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with staff, students, parents and community. Monitor, observe and report student behavior and progress according to approved policies and procedures. Understand and relate to children with special needs. Provide student assistance with daily living and health care activities as assigned. Demonstrate an understanding, patient and receptive attitude toward special education students. Observe health and safety regulations. Maintain records and files. Understand and follow oral and written instructions. Operate standard office and classroom equipment. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Special Qualifications upon hire for positions at a school site that is supported by Title I funds pursuant to the "No Child Left Behind Act of 2001": Complete at least 2 years of study at an institution of higher education (college level) OR Obtained an associate's (or higher) degree OR Met (pass) an assessment that demonstrates knowledge of and the ability to assist in teaching reading, writing, and mathematics OR reading, writing, and mathematics readiness. NOTE: Instructional Aides hired prior to January 8, 2002 have until January 8, 2006 to complete the above requirements. LICENSES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Some positions in this class may require possession of a valid First Aid and CPR Certificate issued by an authorized agency. WORKING CONDITIONS: ENVIRONMENT: Classroom and outdoor environment. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate standard office and classroom equipment. Sitting or standing for extended periods of time. Bending at the waist, kneeling or crouching to assist students. Seeing to read a variety of materials and monitor student activities. Hearing and speaking to exchange information. Reaching overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally. Lifting and carrying students as assigned by the position. HAZARDS: Exposure to bodily fluids, bloodborne pathogens and infectious diseases. Contact with dissatisfied or abusive individuals.