Instructional Assistant - Deaf/Hard of Hearing

• Assists in providing instructional support, as directed by the teacher, with the presentation of learning materials and instructional exercises to an individual or group of students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Communicates fluently in the manual or oral communication system appropriate to the needs of the students.
• Interpret deaf/hard of hearing students’ sound approximations and sign language with the purpose of facilitating communication between deaf/hard of hearing students and teachers.
• Confers with classroom teachers or specialists to prepare learning materials and the classroom environment so that they may be adapted for students with hearing loss.
• Assists students with troubleshooting their hearing technology.
• Assists teachers in assigned features of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) for students; assists in gathering data on student progress and/or implementing IEP objectives.
• Ensures that students understand the classroom rules, procedures, classroom assignments, and homework instructions.
• Accompanies students on field trips and to community-based activities.
• Assists students with washing, toileting, and other personal care activities.
• Keeps alert to any special medical problems students may have; logs student medical information, as appropriate.
• Serves meals to students as part of the instructional program.
• Supervises playground activities.
• Holds and lifts students who may wear heavy braces, use wheelchairs, and other assistive devices.
• Assists in classroom management and monitoring student behavior.
• Monitors bus loading and unloading.
• Assists in keeping facilities neat, clean, and safe.
• May work with students who exhibit behaviors such as verbal outbursts, hitting, throwing, running, pushing, and kicking.
• Discusses students' behavior and progress with supervising certificated staff and professional support personnel.

Education and Experience: High school diploma; and proficiency in American Sign Language (typically gained by some college-level coursework in American Sign Language or considerable experience using American Sign Language), and some experience working with young people are required. Previous experience working with students is desirable. Part-time experience will be considered and adjusted appropriately. Any other combination of training and experience which would likely provide the required skills, knowledge and abilities may be considered. All candidates must meet the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requirement for this position. You can meet the ESSA requirement through possession of an associate’s degree or higher or have completed at least 48 full semester units. Please attach a copy of your degree or college transcripts to your application if you meet these criteria.

SPECIAL NOTE: These positions require fluency in both English and American Sign Language.

CERTIFICATE: Employees in some positions may be required to obtain a valid First Aid Certificate, including CPR training.

Knowledge of:

• American Sign Language.
• Strategies for assisting in the instruction of students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Child guidance principles and practices related to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Correct English usage, including spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• Basic mathematics.
• Requirements for the physical care of students with disabilities.
• Basic teaching techniques and methods.
• Oral, written, and non-verbal communication skills.
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
• Appropriate hygiene standards.
• Health and safety regulations as related to the position.

• Communicate fluently in the manual or oral communication system appropriate to the needs of the students.
• Assist students who are deaf or hard of hearing in accessing their academic curriculum.
• Operate hearing technology used by students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Gain the confidence of students.
• Use patience and tact in working with students.
• Lift and move students who may wear heavy braces, use wheelchairs, and other assistive devices.
• Assist students with personal care such as dressing, eating, and toileting.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive and privileged information.
• Understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Communicate effectively in the English language, both in oral and written form.