What's the role of a special education assistant at a high school?

I'm considering applying for a special education assistant position at a high school. What tasks and responsibilities should I expect in this role, especially the RSP component? I'm curious about the day-to-day duties.

As a Special Education Assistant, your role would primarily involve supporting the primary Special Education teacher and contributing to a conducive learning environment for students with varied learning needs.

In terms of tasks and responsibilities, they can vary based on the specific needs of the student population but generally, they would encompass:

1. Instructional Support: Assisting the special education teacher in instructing students. This can involve breaking down concepts to a more comprehensible level, employing diverse teaching methods such as visual aids or games, and helping students with their assignments and projects.

2. Behavioral Management: You may be involved in implementing behavior management plans for individual students. This aspect might include monitoring, record keeping, and helping students with self-regulation techniques.

3. Supporting IEPs (Individualized Education Programs): Each student will have an IEP that describes their unique learning needs and the appropriate accommodations. As an assistant, you will support in implementing these provisions and may participate in IEP meetings.

4. Personal Care: Depending on the specific needs of the students, you may need to assist them in basic personal care tasks, such as using the restroom or eating lunch.

5. Classroom Preparation: Assisting in habituation of the learning environment such as setting up learning materials or arranging the classroom prior to the lessons.

Regarding the RSP (Resource Specialist Program) specifically, you will be working with the resource specialist to provide specialized instruction to students in a regular education class. You may work with the students in an inclusive class, pull them aside for small group instruction, or meet with them individually to provide targeted support.

Remember, being a Special Education Assistant can be both challenging and rewarding. It requires empathy, patience, and a belief in the inherent potential of all learners. Good luck with your potential new career path!