| Location | Lincoln, IN |
Secondary Functional Academics Instructional Aide (IA) Company Overview: MSD of Pike Township is committed to providing exceptional educational opportunities for all students, including those with special needs. Pike prioritizes inclusivity, diversity, and individualized support to ensure every student reaches their full potential. We are currently seeking a highly qualified Secondary Functional Academics Instructional Aide to join our team and lead our efforts in providing outstanding special education services. Position Overview: The Secondary Functional Academics Instructional Aide plays a vital role in supporting students with significant cognitive disabilities in acquiring functional academic skills necessary for independent living and post-secondary transition. Working closely with special education teachers and related service providers, this position provides individualized assistance, facilitates small group instruction, and implements specialized instructional strategies to meet the diverse learning needs of students in a functional academics classroom setting. Key Responsibilities:
Student Support and Assistance: Provide direct support and assistance to students with significant cognitive disabilities in accessing the curriculum, completing assignments, and developing functional academic skills. Adapt instructional materials and strategies to meet the individualized education plan (IEP) goals and objectives of students, focusing on areas such as reading, writing, math, and life skills. Assist students in using assistive technology devices and adaptive tools to enhance learning and communication.
Small Group Instruction: Facilitate small group instruction sessions to reinforce academic concepts, practice functional skills, and promote independence in daily living activities. Collaborate with the special education teacher to plan and deliver differentiated instruction that meets the diverse learning needs of students with varying abilities and skill levels.
Life Skills Development: Support students in developing essential life skills, such as personal hygiene, household management, money management, and community navigation. Provide opportunities for students to practice and generalize skills learned in the classroom to real-life settings, including school, home, and community environments.
Behavior Management and Social Skills Development: Implement behavior management strategies and positive behavior supports to create a supportive and structured learning environment. Support students in developing social skills, communication skills, and self-regulation strategies through targeted instruction, modeling, and reinforcement.
Data Collection and Progress Monitoring: Collect data on student progress and performance in functional academic skills, life skills, and social-emotional development using a variety of assessment tools and methods. Maintain accurate records and documentation of student interventions, accommodations, and progress towards IEP goals and objectives.
Communicate regularly with the special education teacher and related service providers to review data, identify trends, and make data-informed decisions about instructional planning and support strategies.
Collaborative Teamwork and Communication: Work collaboratively with the special education teacher, related service providers, and other support staff to ensure a cohesive and coordinated approach to meeting students' needs. Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and IEP meetings to review student progress, discuss interventions, and develop appropriate supports. Communicate regularly with parents and families to provide updates on student progress, behavior, and academic achievement, and solicit input on individualized supports and interventions. Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Education, Special Education, Psychology, or related field preferred. Previous experience working with students with significant cognitive disabilities in a functional academics classroom setting, preferably in a high school environment. Knowledge of instructional strategies, differentiation techniques, and evidence-based practices for supporting students with significant disabilities in acquiring functional academic skills. Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with teachers, staff, students, and families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Patience, empathy, and a genuine commitment to supporting the academic, social, and emotional development of students with significant disabilities. Salary and Benefits: Salary and benefits will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, following the guidelines set by the school corporation. Working Conditions: The Secondary Functional Academics Instructional Aide typically works in a functional academics classroom setting, collaborating closely with the special education teacher and related service providers. This position involves providing direct support to students with significant cognitive disabilities, facilitating small group instruction, and implementing specialized instructional strategies. The Instructional Aide may also participate in professional development activities and training sessions to enhance knowledge and skills in supporting students with significant disabilities. Note: This job description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and qualifications required of employees in this role.