Special Education Teaching Assistant (K-5)
About the role
Great Hearts Academies is committed to serving students within our special education population in a manner that reflects and affirms their dignity and rightful participation within the larger student body. Through consultation, resource, and inclusion models in a variety of academic environments, the Special Education team aims to provide support while ensuring as much time as appropriate is spent within the general classroom. The Special Education Teaching Assistant is a non-certified assistant to the Special Education Program at the academy for both general education and special education resource classrooms. The assistant will support students in all settings on campus under the direction and in collaboration with certified Special Education teachers and General Education teachers.
Responsibilities
- Support students in small groups or 1:1
- Assist students with assignments, homework, and projects
- Adapt materials and provide modifications to help students learn the material
- Help students understand and reinforce classroom rules
- Monitor student behavior to ensure safety and appropriate interactions
- Implement behavior management strategies
- Assist students with developing social skills, appropriate interactions, and positive behaviors
- Assist with de-escalating student behaviors and request support from General Education Teacher and Special Education Team Members as needed
- Reinforce SDI concepts that have already been implemented
- Help students with transitions and activities
- Support students with personal hygiene needs such as toileting, feeding, and dressing
- Assist students with mobility and adaptive equipment
- Provide general clerical support for the ESS Team
- Attend meetings and training sessions
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Provide a supportive and positive learning environment
Requirements
- High school degree or higher
- Experience in special education
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Interest in reading great books
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate's degree or higher
- Educational Aide certification I, II, or III
Physical Functions
- Standing, sitting, repetitious hand and body movements, bending, squatting, and reaching
- May be required to move or position equipment up to 15 pounds approximately
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal history background check and fingerprint clearance in accordance with state requirements. May need to travel locally for training and professional development opportunities.