Special Education Classroom Aide

The E. John Gavras Center is looking for Classroom aides to work 1:1 with special needs preschool students. The position is part-time Monday through Friday, 9:00 am - 2:30 pm (5.5 hours per day). The Gavras Center has been helping people of all abilities reach their full potential since 1953. Come grow with us!

JOB SUMMARY

Provide support that will assist the teacher in the classroom with the implementation of a child's educational program. Supports and assists with implementation of assessment process, may include collecting data. Reinforces and practices skills with individuals and in small groups. Observes behavior, carries out behavior management activities.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Assists in developing and/or adapting materials under the direction of the teacher for the purpose of providing support and/or reinforce classroom objectives.

  • Under the direction of the teacher, assists teachers, therapists, and parents for the purpose of implementing lesson plans and/or developing students daily living, social/emotional, communication, cognitive, sensory, motor, and behavioral skills.

  • Performs record keeping and data collections functions as delegated by the teacher.

  • Contributes to the development of IEP’s as appropriate.

  • Monitors, observes, supports individual students/persons, classroom and/or playground activities for the purpose of a learning environment conducive to the implementation of the IEP. Must implement prescribed behavior program including individualized interventions.

  • Under the direction of the teacher communicates information about the school program to parents and other persons as appropriate-through written and verbal means.

  • Participates in professional development activities (including conferences) to maintain and enhance professional competence.

  • Attend and participate in Team, Team Planning, Paraprofessional and other designated meetings.

  • Ensures and documents the regular cleaning and sanitation of equipment and supplies.

  • The employee practices in accordance to agency standards and professional conduct and ethics by respecting confidentiality (HIPAA, PHI, etc...) of consumer and family information as well as demonstrating multicultural awareness and respect for all people.

OTHER DUTIES

  • Perform such other duties as delegated by Administration. (may not be essential)

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCe

  • High School Diploma or equivalent with experience required.

  • Associate’s degree in Early Education or related field of study preferred.

  • Clearance from Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) which includes

NYS Department of Criminal Justice Services, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Statewide Central Register Database Check and NYS Justice Center. * Ability to provide documentation demonstrating that you are able to legally perform work in the United States.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

  • The employee demonstrates basic knowledge of human growth and development and is able to apply that knowledge in a holistic manner.

  • Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instruction, read/interpret/apply rules, regulations and policies.

  • Meets schedules and deadlines in a timely manner.

  • Rapidly learn methods and materials used in a variety of instructional situations.

  • Employee demonstrates understanding of the roles and responsibilities of all other staff, demonstrating effective problem solving and decision-making abilities in collaboration with other staff members and administration.

  • Will successfully complete required training courses.

  • Trained in CPR/First Aid and maintained according to Red Cross standards.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Ability to lift fifty (50) pounds consistently throughout the day.

  • Ability to physically respond to students requiring behavioral or crisis interventions; within parameters of NYSED, and PBIS.

  • Ability to physically assist students requiring direct self-help care.

  • Ability to react quickly, which may include but is not limited to stooping, bending, sitting, standing, stretching, walking and running.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time.

  • Noise level in the work environment is moderate to high.

  • Exposure or potential exposure to blood, body fluids, spills or splashes from related substances may occur as a condition of employment.

  • Appropriately respond to unpredictable individuals and situations.

  • The E. John Gavras Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Salary: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour

Expected hours: 25 – 28 per week