1:1 Learning Assistant (High School)

Lusaka, Lusaka

**Job Description: 1:1 High School Learning Assistant for Student with an IEP**  

**Position Title:**  1:1 Learning Assistant  

**Reports To:**  Director of Inclusion 

**Position Summary:**  

The 1:1 High School Learning Assistant provides individualized academic, behavioral, and life skills support to a student with an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This role ensures that the student has the resources and guidance to succeed in both academic and non-academic settings. The assistant collaborates with the student, teachers, and support staff to implement strategies that promote independence, social integration, and personal growth while adhering to the IEP’s goals.  

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**Key Responsibilities:**  

1. **Direct Academic Support:**  

   - Assist the student during classroom activities, ensuring they understand and can complete tasks effectively.  

   - Implement accommodations and modifications as outlined in the IEP, such as using assistive technology, providing visual aids, or breaking down instructions into manageable steps.  

   - Encourage the student’s participation in academic activities and support their efforts to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.  

2. **Behavioral Support:**  

   - Reinforce positive behaviors and help the student follow any established behavior plans.  

   - Support the student in developing self-regulation, conflict resolution, and emotional management skills.  

   - Provide calm, patient redirection and encouragement when challenges arise.  

3. **Teaching Life Skills:**  

   - Help the student develop essential life skills, including time management, organization, and self-advocacy.  

   - Support activities related to personal care and daily routines as appropriate.  

   - Teach practical skills such as navigating school environments or participating in community-based activities.  

   - Promote social skills by modeling and encouraging positive interactions with peers and adults.  

4. **Collaboration and Communication:**  

   - Work with teachers to adapt lessons, materials, and strategies to meet the student’s unique needs.  

   - Coordinate with parents and special education staff to align efforts and share updates on progress.  

   - Actively participate in IEP meetings, providing insights on the student’s progress and areas of focus.  

5. **Documentation and Reporting:**  

   - Maintain detailed records of the student’s progress in academic, behavioral, and life skills areas.  

   - Document daily observations and track milestones related to IEP goals.  

6. **Supervision and Safety:**  

   - Supervise the student during non-classroom activities, including lunch, recess, field trips, and transitions, ensuring their safety and inclusion.  

   - Encourage the student’s independence while providing necessary support.  

7. **Professional Development:**  

   - Attend training sessions, workshops, and other professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge of special education and life skills teaching.  

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**Qualifications:**  

- High school diploma or equivalent (required); associate degree or higher in education, special education, or a related field (preferred).  

- Experience working with students with special needs, especially in life skills instruction, is highly desirable.  

- Understanding of IEP implementation and accommodations, with a focus on life skills development.  

- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to build strong relationships with the student, parents, and staff.  

- Patience, adaptability, and a commitment to fostering student independence.  


**Work Environment:**  

The position is primarily in a high school setting but may include participation in community-based learning or field trips.  

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**Note:**

This position is tentative with a likely start date at the end of January. The learning assistant would be employed directly by the family and not AISL.