Educational Program Assistant Jobs in Bend, OR (NOW HIRING)

Bend-La Pine Schools

Bend, Oregon 97703

Bend-La Pine Schools is committed to the principle of equity. Equity supersedes the notion of equality, where all are treated the same. Pursuing equity requires the removal of barriers and the promotion of inclusive practices so that all students fully benefit. The principle of equity will inform all BLS policies, regulations, programs, operations, practices, and resource allocations.

Studies have shown that some individuals (women and people of color, for example) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every single qualification in a job description. Our goal is to find the best candidate for the position, and we acknowledge that that candidate may be an individual from a less traditional background. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications described. If you are unsure whether you meet the qualifications of a position, or how this would be determined, please feel free to contact Human Resources to discuss your application.

Position Title: EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANT - INCLUSION

Department: Special Programs

Reports To: Assigned Teacher and Site Administrator

JOB DEFINITION:

Under direct supervision, the Educational Assistant - Inclusion, provides supported education services in classrooms, resource centers, or other school-related areas. The Educational Assistant is directly involved in the instructional program for assigned students and their identified special needs. The responsibilities include in and out of class supervision of students; small group and one on one instruction of students; and general assistance to the teacher. The employee works independently after becoming familiar with the instructional needs of the special needs students and seeks clarification from the teacher for new or unusual situations. The employee works on a daily basis with disabled students who require special attention to meet their unique needs. The employee works under the supervision of a special education teacher and/or administrator.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Assists with implementing individualized education plan (IEP).
• Assists special education teaching staff responsible for preparation, implementation, and evaluation of individual and group instructional programs.
• Assists in communicating with teachers and parents on students' progress.
• Assists with record keeping to monitor students' daily and monthly data on progress.
• Assists students' in their understanding of instructional concepts by reemphasizing the basic elements of teacher directed activities.
• Provides students with additional practice on identified skill areas.
• Assists with the correction of student work as assigned by the classroom teacher.
• Prepares instructional materials and operates instructional equipment.
• Supervises students during recess, lunch periods, and before / after school by keeping a calm and disciplined atmosphere on the playground, in the cafeteria, library, hallways, and bus lines.
• Assists in monitoring the daily school routines of a small group and / or individual low functioning student.
• Participates in the various vocational / recreational activities developed for ILSC / FLSC students.
• Assists the special education teaching staff in maintaining the practical life skills such as dressing, toileting and feeding students with mildly to profoundly disabling conditions in the District's ILSC / FLSC program.
• Follows the assigned daily schedule.
• Fulfills other related duties as assigned.
• Fulfills performance standards identified in the evaluation process as required by the position.
• Fulfills working conditions and physical effort listed below.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work is performed primarily indoors in classroom or specialized instructional settings, with occasional outdoor supervision. The position requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and assisting students with mobility or personal care needs. The role may involve lifting or supporting students or equipment consistent with assigned duties.

The employee may be exposed to escalated student behaviors and may encounter bodily fluids while providing direct support. Work follows the assigned school schedule and may include participation in school activities.

The role requires attentiveness, patience, consistent implementation of intervention strategies, and collaboration with licensed staff to support student learning and safety. The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge:

• Teaching methods and procedures.
• Filing and record keeping systems.
• Computers, audio-visual equipment and office machines, and their operation.
• Instructional materials and their uses.
• Basic provisions of PL-142, due process procedures, and the IEPs for students identified as disabled.
• Student behavior and methods to assure proper conduct.
• Safety practices.

Skills & Abilities:

Possess the physical ability to regularly attend work and fulfill the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Read, understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Learn the operation of telephones, computers, and other equipment used in the work, as required by the position.
• Accurately transfer, record and convey information, and materials as required by the position.
• Train and supervise student helpers.
• Communicate clearly and appropriately in speech and in writing in accordance with educational standards.
• Promote the success of special education programs and the students served by these programs.
• Maintain patient, positive, persistent attitude and a warm, accepting personality toward persons with disabilities.
• Ability to learn how to deal with bodily fluid spills.
• Adhere to the district requirements for a drug-free workplace.
• Abide by confidentiality requirements.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

At least two years of related college education, an AA degree, or meet the Highly Qualified requirements by passing the Paraprofessional Assessment Exam with a score of 455 or higher

The position requires general knowledge of technical procedures. Knowledge of School District practices or policies is necessary. Job proficiency can be acquired in twelve to twenty-four months.

CERTIFICATION AND LICENSING:

NCLB (No Child Left Behind) Paraprofessional qualifications for positions at sites that are designated as Title I School- wide programs.

Expectations of Professional Conduct:

Employees of Bend-La Pine Schools are expected to adhere to all Bend-La Pine Schools policies and regulations, ensuring compliance with established procedures and expectations. They are to prioritize the well-being of students, aligning their conduct with the core values of public education and the mission, vision, and goals of Bend-La Pine Schools. This entails maintaining consistent and punctual attendance while adhering to site and/or district protocols for reporting absences.

Professionalism extends to personal presentation, with employees expected to maintain attire and grooming appropriate to their roles. While carrying out everyday tasks independently, it's essential to maintain professionalism in how you communicate, both verbally and nonverbally, with students, parents/guardians, the public, and colleagues. This includes valuing and respecting cultural and background differences. Employees of Bend-La Pine Schools are entrusted with fostering a respectful working and learning environment, upholding confidentiality regarding student, staff, and district information at all times.

The statements herein reflect the general nature and level of work expected in this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications.

Employees may be assigned additional duties as needed to support district operations, provide coverage, and ensure the effective functioning of the organization. This may include location changes to the assignment in order to address developing district needs.