Job Title:                       Aide, Science Lab

Reports to:                    Assistant Superintendent

Dept./School:                Curriculum & Instruction

Wage/Hour Status:       Nonexempt

Pay Grade:                     CTI1 – 187 days

Date Revised:                12/02/2024

Primary Purpose:

Experiential, hands-on inquiry creates the opportunity to learn in the science classroom. The TEKS recommend a 50-50 split in time between traditional classroom activities and experiential activities (labs, experiments, field investigations, etc.) for elementary science. Preparing daily lab activities and managing lab supplies/materials requires a significant time investment which goes beyond the mandatory conference time of a self-contained elementary teacher. Without adequate planning time, teachers are less likely to include high-quality lab activities in the classroom, leading to worse learning outcomes for students in

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

High school diploma or GED equivalent recognized by the Texas Education Agency or a regional accrediting agency and 

• A minimum of forty-eight (48) semester college hours from an accredited college or university or T.O.P. NCLB test / Region XX
• Eligible to obtain a paraprofessional certificate issued by the State Board of Educator Certification.
• Candidate must have satisfactory outcome of fingerprinting background check.  Non-refundable fee (approximately $50.00) paid by the employee.  

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to work well with children
• Ability to communicate effectively 

Experience:

• Some experience working with children

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

General

1. Demonstrates thoroughness, reliability and a high degree of accuracy in performing work assignments.
2. Works cooperatively with others and maintains a positive attitude in the work environment.
3. Demonstrates initiative and good judgment in problem solving and decision making.
4. Reports promptly and maintains good attendance.
5. Uses time productively on the job.
6. Follows district policies, rules and regulations
7. Accepts supervisory direction
8. Strives to improve job skills
9. Demonstrates tact, courtesy and helpfulness in dealing with staff, students, parents, and visitors in the district.

 Instructional Support 

•  Science material inventory management, including:
• periodically inventorying the science lab, and 
• promptly communicating materials needed for purchase with relevant campus and district staff
• Preparation and delivery of daily science lab materials for Grades 1-5
• In-class instructional support for grade 5 science lab lessons, including:
• setting up labs for grade 5 science lab lessons
• interacting positively with students to support learning under the guidance of the primary instructor (e.g. ensuring students are on-task, safely using lab equipment, etc.)
• Having extensive knowledge on elementary lab safety, experimental design, and safe/proper usage of lab equipment
• Coordination with the district science specialist and C&I department, including meeting with district science specialist frequently
• Extensive collaboration with teachers in grades 1-5, including special education teachers and other support personnel

 Student Management

16. Conduct instructional exercises assigned by the coach; work with individual students or small groups.

1. Help supervise students throughout school day, inside and outside classroom. This
2. includes lunchroom, bus, and playground duty.
3. Keep teacher informed of special needs or problems of individual students.

 Other

1.  Participate in staff development training programs to improve job performance.
2.  Participate in faculty meeting and special events as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None

Equipment Used:

Copier, personal computer, and audiovisual equipment

Working Conditions: 

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Maintain emotional control under stress. Moderate standing, stooping, bending, and lifting.  Moderate exercises. 

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.