Teacher Aide or Instructional Assistant

SUMMARY

The teacher aide performs a variety of instructional tasks and clerical duties in a classroom to assist teaching staff with the education of students. Under the guidance of the classroom teacher, the teacher aide will assist with providing a positive student learning environment and participate in a dynamic setting with other classroom teachers, administrators, and other staff members in the development and implementation of the school’s programs and goals.

The Diocese of Orlando four core values lay the foundation for the work performed by employees:

1. Authenticity: Conviction that God has called us to reflect exteriorly our inner life of faith in our daily living
2. Respect: Affirming each person’s God-given dignity and uniqueness.
3. Courage: Inspired by this gift of the Holy Spirit, we proclaim and live the Word of God fearlessly and devotedly.
4. Commitment: Individually and collectively, we are steadfast to the team and its purpose.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties and functions, as outlined herein, are intended to be representative of the type of tasks performed within this classification. They are not listed in any order of importance. The omission of specific statements of the duties or functions does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Performs tasks related to classroom instruction under the supervision of a certified teacher.
• Guides independent study, enrichment work, and corrective/remedial instruction directed by the teacher.
• Assists individual students who need special attention and/or assistance.
• Assists the teacher in preparing instructional materials for classroom and student use.
• Assists with routine classroom clerical duties in hard copy and electronically.
• Assists individual students and/or teachers with the use of assistive technology/adaptive devices, as needed.
• Supervises students in classrooms, halls, cafeterias, school yards, and gymnasiums, or on field trips.
• Tutors and assists children individually or in small groups to help them master assignments and to reinforce learning concepts presented by teachers.
• Enforces administration policies and rules governing students.
• Discusses assigned duties with classroom teachers to coordinate instructional efforts.
• Presents subject matter to students under the direction and guidance of teachers, using lectures, discussions, or supervised role-playing methods.
• Observes students' performance, and records relevant data to assess progress.
• Assists with bulletin board displays, exhibits, equipment, and demonstrations.
• Organizes and supervises games and other recreational activities to promote physical, mental, and social development.
• Provides extra assistance to students with special needs, such as non-English-speaking students or those with physical and mental disabilities.
• Attends staff meetings and serve on committees, as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the principal.

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.

CATHOLIC FAITH

Requires an appreciation and respect for the Catholic Church and its teachings. Employees must conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with and supportive of the mission and purpose of the church. Their public behavior must not violate the faith, morals or laws of the Church or the polices of the Diocese.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• High School diploma or equivalent required. 
• Related experience in similar position is preferred. 

OTHER SKILLS and ABILITIES

• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills are required. 
• The ability to communicate, listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. 
• The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. 
• Strong command of both written and spoken English language.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is performed mostly indoors in an environmentally controlled setting. 
• Work is performed in a busy and occasionally noisy environment. 
• Work is to be performed directly on school campuses. 
• Work from home is not permitted. 
• Works frequently in close physical proximity to others and may encounter work in enclosed or tight spaces.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The ability to sit and stand for long periods of time. Must be able to reach, grasp, feel, and see up close and from afar. Must be able to use basic office computer hardware and peripherals, with or without reasonable accommodation. Must be able to communicate verbally and in written form. Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (15 pounds). 

A review of this position has excluded the marginal functions of the position that are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties. All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions and requirements are subject to possible modifications to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent(s) will possess the abilities and aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Requirements are representative of the minimum level of knowledge, skills, and ability.