Summary Description:
Under general supervision, performs instructional assistance work in the Head Start Program. Work of the class involves providing assistance to classroom teachers and others by performing a variety of tasks relating to the physical and instructional needs of Head Start students and operation of the classroom or other curriculum oriented learning environment. Workers perform instructional assistance duties for children in the Head Start program that are identical in character and purpose as instructional assistants in elementary schools. Preference given to persons who are or have been parents or legal guardians of children in the Head Start program.Physical Demands:Frequent bending, walking, running, and lifting of objects/equipment up to 50 pounds may be required. Additional demands may require moving wheelchairs, assisting with toileting, feeding and other daily living activities. Assist with self-care plans such as toileting, feeding, personal hygiene, dressing and other daily living activities; physically assist students to engage in activities such as walking or eating, able to kneel and work on the floor with students, able to walk for long periods. Assistance with physically aggressive behaviors required.Special Requirements:Must eat same lunch as children unless under documented doctor^s orders. Must follow both Head Start Program Performance Standards as well as MCPS regulations. Outside duty may be required. Must be able to accommodate flexible scheduling and change of location and/or program, as needed. May require training to accommodate students^ special needs. Continues planned instructional activities during teacher^s temporary absence from the classroom. May be required, after training on the administration of medications, and/or treatments including G-tube feedings or clean, intermittent/non-complex bladder catheterization. [COMAR 13A.05.05.08 (D)]

Summary Description:
Under general supervision, performs instructional assistance work in the Head Start Program. Work of the class involves providing assistance to classroom teachers and others by performing a variety of tasks relating to the physical and instructional needs of Head Start students and operation of the classroom or other curriculum oriented learning environment. Workers perform instructional assistance duties for children in the Head Start program that are identical in character and purpose as instructional assistants in elementary schools. Preference given to persons who are or have been parents or legal guardians of children in the Head Start program.Physical Demands:Frequent bending, walking, running, and lifting of objects/equipment up to 50 pounds may be required. Additional demands may require moving wheelchairs, assisting with toileting, feeding and other daily living activities. Assist with self-care plans such as toileting, feeding, personal hygiene, dressing and other daily living activities; physically assist students to engage in activities such as walking or eating, able to kneel and work on the floor with students, able to walk for long periods. Assistance with physically aggressive behaviors required.Special Requirements:Must eat same lunch as children unless under documented doctor^s orders. Must follow both Head Start Program Performance Standards as well as MCPS regulations. Outside duty may be required. Must be able to accommodate flexible scheduling and change of location and/or program, as needed. May require training to accommodate students^ special needs. Continues planned instructional activities during teacher^s temporary absence from the classroom. May be required, after training on the administration of medications, and/or treatments including G-tube feedings or clean, intermittent/non-complex bladder catheterization. [COMAR 13A.05.05.08 (D)]

Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of child development, instructional strategies and practices applicable to assignment, and instructional goals and policies of Montgomery County Public Schools. Ability to assist with implementation of the instructional program and to participate in monitoring and ensuring appropriate student behavior. Ability to exhibit patient behavior and to work effectively with children, young adults, and staff members. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and to perform all required tasks. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Ability to read/write/speak English. Ability to interact with and support students with special needs. Knowledge of standard desktop computer hardware and software such as MS Office products and database software. Knowledge of and the ability to meet the seven core competencies of the Supporting Services Professional Growth System (SSPGS).

Education Training Experience:
These requirements are in order of preference.Associate�s degree, required. Bachelor�s degree preferred. A minimum of nine credit-hours related to education field such as behavior management, instructional strategies, and/or one year experience working with students in structured educational (or academic) situations required. Two to four years� experience working with children and adolescents preferred.Or at least 48 college credits and two years of experience in an education related field including preschool, adult day program, after school program, extended day, or school/non-school based departments, etc.Or two years of experience in an education related field including nursery school, adult day program, after school program, extended day, or school/non-school based departments, etc., and successful completion of the ParaPro Assessment with a qualifying score of 455 or higher is required. Any combinations of applicable education, training, and experience which provide the knowledge, abilities, and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.Certificate License:None