Educational Assistants and Student Services Teachers and Music Teachers in the Schools

Introduction

As an Educational Assistant you will often work closely to support teachers in Student Services. Student Service departments in school specialize in aiding students with their educational development, learning disabilities and emotional health. Resource Teachers are the head of these departments and work closely with students and assign educational assistants to work one on one with students to help them reach their educational and emotional growth goals. It may be surprising to find out that as an Educational Assistant you may be called upon to shadow and mentor your student throughout their day. This can include participation with your student in each of the classes that they participate in, including physical education and music class.

Task

The basis of Student Services/Resource Teachers begins with Inclusive Education. Student Services and Resource Teachers are the teachers that make sure that all students’ academic, social and emotional needs are met. The Resource Department is where Individualized Education Plans are drafted. Educational Assistants who work one on one with students learning with an IEP submit reports, monitor progress and offer feedback during the development phase as well as during the implementation of it.

When working with your student throughout your day, you might find yourself in a music class. Music class is a high participation class that is also highly stimulating. Depending on the child’s needs you may need to help them maintain their focus, manage their emotions and possible triggers, and help them learn music! Learning music can be a powerful tool that impacts brain development, encourages social development as well as inclusive education. It might be a learning opportunity for Educational Assistants as they learn along and play along in class!

Process

Student Services is a department in schools dedicated to facilitating and maintaining inclusive education opportunities for all learners. They provide everything from teacher support, one on one teaching for students, working with students with learning disabilities, ADHD, students on the autism spectrum, children who require behavioural and mental health support. They support classroom teachers by working with students to be able to find success in the classroom.

Music teachers are specialist teachers who provide age and developmental appropriate music based classed for students of all ages. They are responsible for following and promoting core music curriculum from kindergarten up to and including grade 12. They have a demanding and creative job in teaching musical theory, singing, instruments and music appreciation in a classroom setting.

Evaluation

Conclusion

Educational Assistants need to be adaptable and flexible in their day. You will work with and partner with many different educators in your daily routine. The Student services teachers may be the biggest contacts you have in regards to individual students you work with. They will also provide a lot of resources and guidance for working with your students. Being an active participant in your student's day by helping and participating in all of their classes, including music, will make your connection even better. When your connection is better, you and your student will benefit greatly.