Classroom Assistant - Carrington

Waterbury Public Schools

JOB CLASSIFICATION DESCRIPTION

JOB CLASSIFICATION TITLE:
Classroom Assistant
DEPARTMENT:
Teaching and Learning
INCUMBENT NAME:
Grant
BARGAINING UNIT CLASSIFICATION:
UPSEU, Local 424-Unit 68
REPORTS TO:
Teacher or building level administrator
FLSA DESIGNATION:
Non-Exempt. 10 months; 35 hours per week; $15.76/hour. Note: This is a grant funded, Union position with benefits that exists as long as funds are available.

1. One (1) year of experience working with young children in group activities.
2. Preferred: Associate’s Degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 12 credits in early childhood education (EDE) or Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) credential with a minimum of 12 credits in early childhood education (ECE) and
3. Desired: Experience in an urban school district and/or a multi-cultural environment.

1. Incumbents in this class may be required to possess a current Connecticut Motor Vehicle Class D Operator’s License.

• Knowledge of and respect for the diverse backgrounds (cultural, linguistic, environmental) of students and how these characteristics affect the student’s life and learning;
• Knowledge of relevant laws, rules, regulations, and Board policies and District procedures;
• Knowledge of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Scientific Research Based Interventions (SRBI);
• Knowledge of Social Emotional Learning (SEL);
• Knowledge of the similarities and differences between cognitive, communicative, physical, social, and emotional needs of students and the factors that influence these different needs;
• Oral and written communication skills;
• Interpersonal and social skills;
• Ability to apply the principles of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Scientific Research Based Interventions (SRBI);
• Ability to assist and reinforce elements that support a safe, healthy, and effective teaching and learning environment;
• Ability to assist in adapting instructional strategies and materials according to the needs of the student, under the direction of a teacher;
• Ability to be sensitive and respectful in communications regarding all children and families, regardless of differences in cultural heritage, lifestyle, values, and home environment;
• Ability to collect and record performance data on students under the direction of a licensed teacher, while respecting student confidentiality and the laws regarding ethical practices of assessment;
• Ability to collect objective and accurate information on student behavior to be provided to licensed professionals, as appropriate and directed by a licensed teacher;
• Ability to draw on knowledge and resources regarding a variety of developmental and age-appropriate instructional methods, techniques, and materials when supporting the instruction of the licensed teacher;
• Ability to effectively employ a variety of strategies that reinforce positive behavior;
• Ability to establish and maintain rapport with students;
• Ability to follow oral and written direction of licensed teachers, seeking clarification as needed;
• Ability to participate as a member of the educational team when requested to attend conferences with families or primary caregivers, with an understanding of some of the concerns of parents;
• Ability to prepare and organize materials to support teaching and learning, as directed by a licensed teacher;
• Ability to reinforce the development of student social skills by using appropriate strategies to modify the environment;
• Ability to use ethical practices for confidential communication about students;
• Ability to use strategies that promote the student’s independence;
• Ability to utilize learning styles theory in supporting instructional practices;
• Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

• Assists in assessing student progress as directed, including proctoring the administration of tests and maintaining confidential records;

• Assists in maintaining the security of records, materials and equipment;
• Assists students with physical needs (hygiene, toileting, eating, dressing) as needed;
• Assists teacher in meeting with parents and displays children’s work.;
• Assists teacher with student supervision as assigned;
• Assists the teacher in observing, recording, and charting behavior;
• Assists the teacher in preparing for changing curriculum to meet the needs of students with diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, learning styles and special needs;
• Assists the teacher in the enforcement of classroom rules and the maintenance of appropriate records;
• Assists the teacher with crisis problems and behavior management;
• Assists the teacher(s) in preparing materials and equipment for direct instructional activity, including locating, copying, collating, distributing and/or grouping materials to support instructional activities planned by the teacher;
• Communicates effectively with the staff members, students, parents, administrators and other contact persons using tact and good judgment;
• Encourages children to talk;
• Ensures adherence to established safety standards;
• Examines short- and long-term unit plans prepared by the teacher and anticipate the need for specific supplies and materials;
• Follows appropriate training and lead small group activities planned by the teacher in an atmosphere where students are actively engaged in meaningful learning experiences;
• Gives individual attention to children with personality, emotional, physical, language, toileting and other needs;
• Keeps supervisor informed of potential problems or unusual events;
• Maintains a clean and orderly environment for students;
• Maintains confidentiality regarding school/workplace matters;
• Models and maintains high ethical standards;
• Participates in cross-training activities as required;
• Participates in professional activities and meetings;
• Participates successfully in the training programs offered to increase skill and proficiency related to assignment;
• Performs clerical tasks such as taking attendance, collecting milk money, issuing transfers, and recording and ordering supplies;
• Prepares required reports and maintains all appropriate records;
• Prepares the classroom environment for learning activities;
• Provides instructional support as planned or coordinated by the teacher;
• Reads stories to children and leads small group activities;
• Responds to inquiries and concerns in a timely manner;
• Serves on school/system committees as required or appropriate;
• Sets up and operates audio-visual equipment and other materials for instructional purposes;
• Supervises students during play and in a variety of classroom settings and school activities (e.g., lunchroom, field trips, bus duty, recess, art, music periods, etc.);
• Works with teachers to develop classroom schedule;
• May be required to take over classes in emergencies because of teacher’s absence;
• May plan field trips as appropriate;
• Performs other related duties as required.