1:1 Learning Assistant (High School)
**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.