Instructional Aide

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School

Job Description

 Job Title: Instructional Aide                                                        Status:   part time           

Exemption Status: Non- Exempt                        

Department/Location: Yuma, AZ

Primary Function:  Under the direction of the school principal Under the direction of the school principal, the Aide is responsible is responsible for the care and instruction of pre-kindergarten or kindergarten children.as well as for supporting the School and the Diocese of Tucson in their mission to evangelize, catechize, and provide services to students requiring additional support (academic and/or behavioral) educating all youth in a Catholic School environment.  The Aide shall be a minister of the Gospel and Catholic Teaching both academically and behaviorally while at work and in his/her personal life, “…Live in a manner worthy of the call you have received.” (Eph. 4:1)        

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of this Ministerial Position: 

• Recognize and support the unique Catholic Mission of the School by speaking, acting, and instructing consistent with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.  The aide may not espouse, in word or deed, any doctrine inconsistent with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
• Give evidence of living Gospel values by being an active member of a faith community and being open to the importance of a personal faith journey; strive to model the teaching of Jesus by attitude and example.
• Help build the school’s faith community by a demonstrated willingness to participate in, and help plan, school religious and service activities.
• Assist with leading and participating in classroom prayer daily.
• Demonstrate effectiveness in execution of prepared lessons to implement stated goals and objectives using provided materials; incorporate school and diocesan curriculum objectives.
• Demonstrate competence in the teaching process in accordance with the diocese of Tucson education objectives.
• Develop and use effective methods of evaluation, including monitoring and reporting on children's development.
• Utilize play and interactive activities to develop language and vocabulary, introduce scientific and mathematical concepts, and improve social skills.
• Assist with planning and organizing a range of individual and group activities, including dramatic play, movement, dance, singing, games, arts, literacy, math, and nature activities.
• Assist with preparing the indoor and outdoor environment to provide a positive and safe learning environment. 
• Use creative and practical skills to prepare inspiring learning materials. 
• Establish a consistent disciplinary approach in alignment with school and classroom policies, that promotes self-direction and positive self-image.
• Establish and maintain a functional and pleasant learning environment.
• Work cooperatively with the supervising teacher, administration and all staff members; promote positive relationships with students, parents, and others.
• Manage all facets of the day-to-day operations of the preschool.
• Maintain a professional manner and demonstrate a sense of professional responsibility. 
• Adhere to the Diocese of Tucson Safe Environment program and guidelines regarding appropriate boundaries and compliance with current mandatory reporting law. 
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Physical/Mental Requirements: Requires coordination and manual dexterity, normal mental and visual ability; ability to lift as required in a normal school room environment.  

Required Activities: Walking, sitting, standing, stooping, reaching, talking, hearing, and carrying.           

Basic Qualifications:   

• A working knowledge of, and a strong commitment to the mission of fostering lay leadership in the Catholic Church. If a baptized Catholic, must be a practicing Roman Catholic in full communion with the Church.
• General computer skills including internet research.
• Excellent communications skills including written, verbal; Professional bearing and clean and neat personal appearance.
• Excellent leadership, human relations, and interpersonal skills; must be a self-starter, be well-organized, and must be a team player.
• Evening and weekend work may be required.
• Employ flexibility and follow directions.
• Perform multiple tasks simultaneously and with a sense of urgency.
• Exercise courtesy to fellow employees, parents, and others 
• Professional bearing and clean and neat personal appearance.
• Complete a criminal history and background check.
• Valid and current Arizona DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card.

Education and Experience:   

• Associate’s degree or higher
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience working in a school environment
• Willingness to obtain and maintain Level I Diocesan Ministry Certification  

Other:

• Bilingual preferred

Covenants of Employment:

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School is a Roman Catholic religious organization and that all employees are expected to respect and conduct themselves in accordance with the values, teachings, and morals of the Roman Catholic Church and by Arizona state law.  Under the “Zero Tolerance Policy”, no one will be knowingly assigned or retained to serve in the school when that person is determined to have engaged in the abuse of a minor or to have violated boundaries in dealing with minors.