Job Description: Instructional Assistant

Salary

Classified salary schedule, range 20. Additional 2.5% bilingual premium for bilingual positions. Initial placement shall be determined according to training and experience; maximum salary placement will be at mid-range. Benefits include holidays, vacation and sick leave.

Definition

Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, assist a certificated teacher in reinforcing instruction to individual or small groups of students in a classroom or other learning environment; assist teachers with the preparation of instructional materials; tutor students in assigned subject areas.

Examples of Duties

Tutor individual or small groups of students, reinforcing instruction as directed by the teacher; monitor and oversee student drills, practices and assignments. Perform a variety of clerical duties such as preparing, typing and duplicating instructional materials, scoring papers and recording grades; maintain student files as assigned. Provide support to the teacher by setting up work areas and displays, operating audio-visual equipment, and distributing and collecting paper, supplies and materials; confer with teachers concerning programs and materials to meet student needs. Administer, monitor and score a variety of tests and assignments; rephrase materials and explain instructions and words. Observe and control behavior of students according to approved procedures; report progress regarding student performance and behavior. Operate a variety of office, instructional and audio-visual equipment as assigned; receive and distribute textbooks, instructional materials and supplies. Assure the health and safety of students by following health and safety practices and procedures; administer minor first aid as assigned; refer seriously injured or ill students to appropriate personnel as required. Direct group activities of students as assigned; assist in monitoring lunchroom, recess and other playground activities as assigned; accompany students on field trips and at bus stops as assigned. Maintain the confidentiality of student records and information according to established guidelines. Participate in staff meetings; attend various in-service meetings as assigned. Perform related duties as assigned.

Employment Standards

Education and Experience: Any combination equivalent to graduation from high school and at least one year experience in working with children in an organized setting. Requires BA degree, or AA degree, or passing a general examination developed by the State of California.

Knowledge and Abilities:

Knowledge of child guidance principles and practices; basic subjects taught in district schools, including arithmetic, grammar, spelling, language and reading; safe practices in classroom and playground activities; basic instructional methods and techniques; correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; oral and written communication skills; interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy; basic record-keeping techniques; Classroom procedures and appropriate student conduct; operation of office, instructional and audio-visual equipment.

Ability to assist with instruction and related activities in a classroom or assigned learning environment; reinforce instruction to individual or small groups of students as directed by the teacher; print and write legibly; add, subtract, multiply and divide quickly and accurately; understand and follow oral and written directions; learn the procedures, functions and limitations of assigned duties; communicate effectively with students and adults; read, interpret, apply and explain rules, regulations, policies and procedures; establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others; work confidentially with discretion; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; supervise and discipline students according to approved policies and procedures; operate office, instructional and audio-visual equipment. Some positions require computer skills.

Working Conditions:

Physical Abilities: Hearing and speaking to exchange information; seeing to monitor students; dexterity of hands and fingers to operate assigned equipment and demonstrate activities; bending at the waist, kneeling or crouching to assist students; reaching overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally.