GFU-E1 - Student Support Worker - Job Description

Immediate Supervisor: Principal

Functional Supervisor(s): Resource Teacher and Student Services Administrator

Education and Qualifications:

• Grade 12 Education or equivalent.  

• Educational Assistant Certificate (refer to GFE-E1), Post-secondary courses/training in special needs education programs; completion of a Respite Worker training program is an asset. 

• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Knowledge and Skills:

• The Student Support Worker is calm, empathetic and demonstrates patience, compassion, and excellent communication skills

• Prior experience working with special needs children

• Experience working with individuals with autism and specialized knowledge of autism spectrum disorder and related interventions is an asset

• Ability to meet physical and emotional demands of the position to safely implement non-violent crisis intervention techniques

• Experience maintaining composure and resilience during high-stress situations is necessary

• Ability to work independently while following care instructions accurately

• Experience working with Assistive Technology: AAC Devices / Proloquo2Go

• Safety Certification in CPR/First Aid, WEVAS, NVCI or Low Arousal Approach Training or willingness to obtain

Summary of Responsibilities

1. Provide one-on-one support and supervision to a student with special learning needs and abilities at school, with opportunities for off site excursions, during the school day.

2. Engage the student in appropriate activities and provide positive reinforcement to enhance the student’s school experience by promoting independence, social interaction, personal growth, well being and confidence. 

3. Monitor the child's safety at all times, especially during activities or outings. 

4. Implement behavior management strategies and techniques. Report all instances of dysregulation in a timely manner through appropriate reporting procedures.

5. Communicate effectively with the school team regarding the child's needs and any concerns that arise during caregiving hours. Monitor and document progress and behavior by keeping a log of activities and observations and be prepared to communicate with the educational team.

6. Implement student specific plans to facilitate social and academic skill development.

7. Adhere to Classroom or Resource Teacher’s and/or Clinicians’ approaches to expectations, discipline, and interaction with individual students. Be willing to accept guidance and supervision from the professional staff and follow appropriate lines of communication.

8. Maintain confidentiality with respect to all school and program information, and show a sense of discretion that respects the privacy and integrity of all persons and data.

9. Function as a positive role model in order to foster the development of desirable traits and habits in individual students.

10. Demonstrate respectful interpersonal skills with students, staff, and community.

11. Be reliable and punctual. 

12. Be flexible, as expectations may change with varying needs.

13. The specific duties of Student Support Workers will vary between positions. The duties are dependent on the program plan developed by the educational team.

14. If a Support Support Worker becomes aware of a threat or if a threat is made to them, they must report it to their principal immediately.

15. If a Support Support Worker has reason to suspect that a child or youth has suffered or is suffering from abuse, they are required by law to report this information to Child and Family Services (usually by telephone).  The Student Support Worker may seek assistance from the principal when completing the “Follow-up to Oral Report of Suspected Child Abuse” form in JLI-E1.  (This form is also located in the School Emergency Preparedness Binder.)