Special Education Teacher Assistant - Personal Care

Utica Community Schools - Sterling Heights, MI

Full-time - Entry Level

Sterling Heights, MI

About the position

The Special Education Teacher Assistant position is designed to provide essential support to special needs students in a classroom environment. This role requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a demonstrated understanding of the unique needs of students with disabilities. The assistant will work closely with students to assist them with personal needs, which may include hygiene, diapering, toileting, and clothing. The ability to assist students facing multiple challenges in the classroom is crucial, as is the capacity to follow through with prescribed behavioral management or instructional programs. Maintaining composure and effective communication during stressful situations is essential for success in this role. The position involves a commitment to being flexible, as the assistant may need to work at multiple sites depending on the individual needs of students as determined by the District. The assistant will also be expected to assist during "down-periods" when additional help is required. Record-keeping and parent contact may be necessary, emphasizing the importance of maintaining confidentiality and respect for the dignity of all students. Characteristics sought for this role include a child-centered approach, adaptability, a calm demeanor, patience, and the ability to focus during potentially distracting situations. Physical flexibility is also important, as the role may require running, walking, lifting, and responding to the physical needs of students, including wheelchair assistance when necessary.

Responsibilities

• Assist students with personal needs including hygiene, diapering, toileting, and clothing.
• Support students with multiple challenges in the classroom environment.
• Follow through with prescribed behavioral management or instructional programs.
• Maintain composure and effective communication during stressful situations.
• Assist during 'down-periods' as a general help.
• Maintain various records and files, including potential parent contact.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Demonstrated understanding of student needs, particularly for special needs students.
• Ability to assist students with personal needs and multiple challenges in the classroom.
• Ability to follow through with behavioral management or instructional programs.
• Ability to maintain composure during stressful situations.
• Willingness to be trained in student health-related awareness and intervention.
• Willingness to accept assignments at multiple sites based on student needs.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with special needs students.
• Training in behavioral management techniques.
• First aid or CPR certification.

Benefits

• Support for promotion of internal candidates.
• Potential for increased hours based on student and program needs.