Assist a preschool, elementary, middle, or secondary school teacher to provide academic, social, or life skills to students who have learning, emotional, or physical disabilities. Serve in a position for which a teacher has primary responsibility for the design and implementation of educational programs and services.
SOC: 25-9043.00
Common Job Titles
Special Education Aide
Special Education Paraprofessional
Special Education Teacher Assistant
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
MindsetAdvocate for inclusive practices and student dignity when collaborating with teachers, families, and support staff in multidisciplinary team meetings.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate assistive technology devices including alternative keyboards, communication boards, and adaptive switches to facilitate student access to educational materials and activities under teacher supervision.
Developing
MindsetEngage students with learning, emotional, or physical disabilities in academic and social activities using positive reinforcement and trauma-informed approaches in classroom and therapeutic settings.
Developing
KnowledgeApply individualized education program (IEP) accommodations and modifications during instructional activities and assessments following teacher guidance.
Developing
Hands-onExecute personal care routines including feeding, positioning, and medical equipment support following established health and safety protocols for students with physical disabilities.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate instructional strategies and behavioral interventions in small group or one-on-one settings to reinforce teacher-designed lesson objectives.
Developing
MindsetSupport students' social-emotional development and self-regulation skills through modeling appropriate behaviors and providing emotional scaffolding during transitions and challenging situations.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate educational software and learning platforms including Google Classroom, Seesaw, and specialized accessibility applications to document student progress and deliver digital instruction.
Developing
KnowledgeDistinguish behavioral signals indicating student needs, frustration, or medical distress in real-time classroom situations to respond appropriately or seek teacher intervention.
Developing
Hands-onPrepare adaptive learning materials, sensory tools, and educational manipulatives aligned with lesson plans and individual student accommodation requirements.
Developing
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
