Summary

Responsible for supporting instruction in various content area(s) and age/grade level(s). Supports learning experiences that motivate students and meet their individual needs. Works with teacher in utilizing instructional materials that support overall curricular goals. Integrates critical thinking skills and literacy/signacy into work with students. Utilizes approved classroom management strategies as needed. Supports NMSD's progressive vision and mission.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Other duties may be assigned)

• Follow the specific instructional objectives of a learning experience/activity as outlined by the certified teacher.
• Assist certified teacher with classroom and behavior management.
• Provide individual academic/communication support as assigned by the teacher.
• Escort students between classes, monitor children during recess, lunch, and other breaks.
• Make, photocopy, collate, and/or laminate classroom materials.
• Drive students to off-campus locations for class activities and/or work experiences; Assist on transportation runs.
• Provide coverage for class or individual students in absence of certified teacher by following substitute lesson plan.
• Serve as a job coach (responsibilities include: follow training and supervision cycle as established by teacher and employer for students, complete reports about student performance to certified teacher).
• Attend required in-services.
• Provide tutoring services with certain students.
• Support feeding, toileting, and mobility needs for specific students (could include physically transferring students in/out of wheelchair).
• Duties may include lifting items up to 35 pounds.
• Adheres to NMSD's Vision, Mission and Belief statements.

Competencies: To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Organization- Must be organized and detail-oriented.
• Analytical- collects and aggregates data for program maintenance and improvement.
• Continuous Learning- Seeks feedback to improve performance; pursues training and development opportunities; strives to continuously build knowledge and skills.
• Job Knowledge- Competent in required job skills and knowledge; exhibits ability to learn and apply new skills; keeps abreast of current developments; requires minimal supervision; displays understanding of how job relates to others; uses resources effectively.
• Use of Technology- Adapts to new technologies; troubleshoots technological problems; uses technology to increase productivity.
• Problem Solving- Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works in group problem solving situations.
• Cooperation- Establishes and maintains effective relations; exhibits tact and consideration; offers assistance and support to co-workers; works cooperatively in group situations; works actively to resolve conflicts.
• Teamwork- Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit; supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
• Written Communication- Writes clearly and informatively; varies writing style to meet needs.
• State and Federal IDEA Compliance- exhibits knowledge of and adherence to all legal requirements related to early intervention.
• Diversity- Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; educates others on the value of diversity; builds a diverse workforce.
• Ethics- Treats people with respect; keeps commitments; inspires the trust of others; works with integrity and principles; upholds organization values.
• Organizational Support- Follows policies and procedures; completes tasks correctly and on time; supports organization's goals and values.
• Adaptability- Manages competing demands.
• Personal Appearance- Dresses appropriately for position; keeps self well groomed.
• Attendance/Punctuality- Is consistently at work and on time; ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent.
• Dependability- Follows instructions, responds to management direction; takes responsibility for own actions.
• Initiative- Seeks increased responsibilities; asks for and offers help when needed.
• Quality- Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; looks for ways to improve and promote quality.
• Safety and Security- Observes safety and security procedures; determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; reports potentially unsafe conditions.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience: Must have successfully obtained high school diploma or equivalency. Associate degree preferred. Experience in working with children preferred.

Certificates and Licenses: Must possess a New Mexico Teachers License with the New Mexico Public Education Department or be eligible to obtain one. Applicant has one year from hire date to obtain licensure.

Language Skills: Proficiency in expressive and receptive American Sign Language and written English. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret content in assigned area/grade level. Ability to explain foundations/advanced concepts in American Sign Language in order to support student learning. Ability to write reports, correspondence, and Individual Education Plans. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from students and parents.

American Sign Language: Advanced American Sign Language skills at hire are required. The applicant must be proficient in receptive and expressive American Sign Language and able to adjust communication to match students' language and communication needs. Applicants who do not possess advanced American Sign Language skills will not be considered for this position.

Mathematical Skills: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute grades with category weights, following an established grading system.

Reasoning Ability: Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions and situations.

Computer Skills: To perform this job successfully, an individual should have working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications among other programs. Ability to utilize Smart Boards, iPads, laptops, and document readers in classroom situations. Able to utilize web-based resources to supplement instructional materials.

Physical Demands: 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. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is required to stand; walk and sit for more than 6 hours a day while teaching classes, and use hands to sign, handle papers, and write on the board. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and peripheral vision.

Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will work within an assigned classroom and be provided with appropriate furniture, technology, and storage space in order to complete assigned duties.