Instructional Aide, Special Education

Job Description

Primary Purpose
 
Assist special education teacher to provide for physical and instructional needs of students with disabilities in special education setting. Assist in implementation of classroom programs, including self-help, behavior management, and instruction programs. Work under general supervision of principal and immediate direction of certified teacher.
 
Qualifications
 
Education/Certification

High school diploma or GED
Valid Texas paraprofessional certificate or willingness to obtain
Meet NCLB Paraprofessional Highly Qualified Requirements

Special Knowledge/Skills

Patience and interest in working with students with disabilities
Ability to follow teacher directions and implement instructional strategies
Knowledge of basic classroom procedures and child development
Effective communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work as part of a team

Experience

Experience working with children
Experience working with students in a special education classroom, preferred

Major Responsibilities and Duties
 
 
Instructional Support

Assist in implementing IEP goals through daily instructional activities
Support students in academic tasks, communication practice, and life skills routines
Prepare materials and adapt resources as directed by the teacher
Monitor student progress and behavior; collect and document data as needed
Provide support with assistive technology, adaptive equipment, and mobility aids

Student Management

Support students with physical, behavioral, and emotional needs
Follow behavior intervention plans and assist with emotional regulation strategies
Supervise students during classroom transitions, lunch, restroom breaks, and other daily routines
Maintain confidentiality of student records and information

Other

Attend relevant trainings and staff meetings as required
Participate in safety drills, ARD meetings (if requested), and school functions
Follow all campus and district procedures, including emergency and safety protocols

Supervisory Responsibilities
 
None
 
Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors
 
Tools/Equipment Used: Standard instructional and office equipment, mobility aids, adaptive devicesPosture: Frequent standing and walking; prolonged sitting; kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, liftingMotion: Regular movement; frequent physical assistance or prompts to studentsLifting: Frequent light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); Occasional heavy lifting (45 pounds or over) and positioning or students with physical disabilities, controlling behavior through physical restraint, assisting nonambulatory students, and lifting and moving adaptive and other classroom equipmentEnvironment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; exposure to biological hazards (bacteria, communicable diseases); exposure to behavior challengesMental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions and challenging students needs; maintain emotional control under stress
 
 
This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

01/06/2026