Special Education Instructional Assistant

About the role

The Special Education Instructional Assistant supports students in the DREAM Life Skills Program at Wendell Phillips School 63. This role focuses on helping students develop academic, social, communication, and daily living skills.

Responsibilities

• Build positive, trusting relationships with students by providing consistent encouragement, guidance, and individualized support throughout the school day
• Support students in developing academic, communication, social, self-regulation, and daily living skills through one-on-one and small-group instruction
• Aid the DREAM classroom teacher in implementing lessons, accommodations, and instructional activities aligned with students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
• Foster a safe, structured, and engaging learning environment by reinforcing classroom routines, promoting student independence, and using positive behavior support strategies
• Assist students with personal care, daily living tasks, classroom transitions, and community-based learning experiences, as needed
• Prepare instructional materials, collect student data, and maintain an organized classroom environment to support effective instruction
• Collaborate with the DREAM classroom teacher and school staff to support each student's individualized goals and contribute to a positive, inclusive school culture
• Model patience, flexibility, professionalism, and a student-centered approach in all interactions with students, families, and colleagues

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (Associate's degree or 30+ college credits a plus for Title I paraprofessional requirements)
• Experience or genuine interest in working with students with disabilities and diverse learning needs
• Patient, nurturing, and relationship-driven approach with students
• Willingness to obtain CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) or equivalent de-escalation certification
• Commitment to equity, high expectations, and serving students with high needs

Preferred

• Prior experience as a paraprofessional, instructional assistant, or in a special education setting
• Experience supporting students with IEPs, behavior plans, or daily living/self-care needs
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

Benefits

• Health, dental & dental insurance, including a health plan option with a $0 employee premium

Pay

$15.00 - $17.00 per hour

Schedule

Full-time, 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM