Assistant Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Position: Assistant Teacher
Reports to: Head Special Education Teacher and Assistant Principal

About us: The Shirley Aninias School is a private 12-month behavior-based elementary program dedicated to neurodiverse students ages 4-13. We tailor our programs to each child, focusing on their individual academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. Our ultimate goal is to provide our students with supportive modifications and accommodations in a school setting to help maximize their learning potential in all areas of development. We are excited to welcome fellow educators and therapists to join our dynamic team who are sensitive to the diverse needs of all students, who have a love for teaching and are dedicated to SAS’ mission to educate students beyond the classroom.

Position Overview: This is a 12-month, full-time position. The Assistant Teacher is a key part of our educational team at The Shirley Aninias School as they provide specialized instruction for individual students. They play a critical role in supporting the educational and developmental needs of our students by ensuring a consistent and safe learning environment. This position involves working closely with the Head Special Education Teacher, the BCBA Supervisor and our Related Services Providers to ensure a nurturing and effective learning environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Classroom Support:
   • Assist the Head Teacher in implementing individualized education plans (IEPs) and progress report goals for students.
   • Support students during classroom activities, ensuring they understand and complete tasks.
   • Help maintain a positive and inclusive classroom atmosphere.
   • Teach a special activity 1x2 per week as directed and submit lesson plans to the Head Teacher on-time.
2. Instructional Assistance:
   • Work with individual students or small groups to reinforce learning material and skills.
   • Assist in the preparation and adaptation of instructional materials.
   • Provide one-on-one instructional support to students as needed or as directed by the Head Teacher or BCBA Supervisor.
3. Behavioral Support:
   • Implement behavior management plans as directed by the BCBA Supervisor, Head Teacher and/or in accordance with the student’s Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP).
   • Assist with collecting data for a student’s Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA).
   • Monitor and document student behavior and progress and enter data into tracking software as required.
   • Encourage positive behavior and provide appropriate interventions.
4. Resource Management:
   • Assist in organizing and maintaining educational resources and materials.
   • Ensure classroom equipment and supplies are used effectively and safely.
5. Communication and Reporting:
   • Provide feedback to the Head Teacher regarding student progress and areas of concern.
   • Maintain accurate records of student activities and performance.
   • Communicate effectively with students, parents, and other staff members.
6. Daily Supervision:
   • Supervise students during non-instructional times, such as lunch, recess, and field trips.
   • Ensure the safety and well-being of students at all times.
7. Professional Development:
   • Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities.
   • Stay informed about best practices and developments in special education.
8. Additional Duties:
   • Assist with administrative tasks such as copying, filing, and organizing student records.
   • Take photographs and videos of students utilizing school equipment.
   • Perform other related duties as assigned by the Head Teacher or Assistant Principal.

Physical Requirements and Essential Functions:

• Must be able to support and de-escalate students under your supervision utilizing approved school methods with minimal supervision. Training will be provided.
• Must be able to lift, carry and hold students safely utilizing approved methods as directed by the school. Training will be provided.
• Must also be able to maneuver around, lift and set-up student furniture, i.e., tables and chairs as well as school equipment.
• Must be able to maintain visual and auditory supervision of students at all times.
• Must be able to accompany students to various parts of the school, activities, fire drills..
• Must have physical stamina and flexibility (walking, bending, stooping, crawling, kneeling, running, stretching, reaching, standing, sitting on the floor) for participating in students' activities and speaking with them at their eye level, playing with them and to clean up toys and equipment from the floor.
• Must have knowledge of First Aid/CPR or be willing to get certified.
• Must be able to communicate with students, parents and staff using clear, understandable language in both verbal and written form.

Position Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education/related field or enrolled in a Bachelor’s program in Special Education/related field.
• At least 2 years of professional experience in Special Education (preschool or elementary school preferred).
• Demonstrates ability to seek supervision and use it constructively.
• Must have tact, discretion, confidentiality, good judgment and common sense.
• Demonstrates ability to work independently, self-motivate, and be resourceful.
• Demonstrates ability to communicate effectively and positively with peers and coworkers.
• Ability to work occasional evening hours for special events.

Salary:

• Between $45,000 - $55,000