Special Education Teaching Assistant (K-5) - Long-Term Substitute

Department/Location: Campus Special Education; Great Hearts Texas DFW and San Antonio

Reports to: Special Education Campus Coordinator | Supervisor: Campus Headmaster

FLSA Status: Hourly/non-exempt, Temporary. This long-term substitute role is a temporary assignment from August through October, with a full-time schedule of 40 hours per week.

About the Role

The Special Student Services Substitute Teaching Assistant will help special education and ESL teachers provide for physical and instructional needs of English Language Learners and/or students with disabilities in a special education setting. The role involves assisting in the implementation of classroom programs, including self-help, behavior management, and instruction programs, under the general supervision of the headmaster and immediate direction of a certified teacher and/or Coordinator.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid Texas educational aide certificate (preferred but not required)
• Highly Qualified as outlined by the Texas Educational Agency (as applicable)
• Ability to work with children with disabilities
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Knowledge of general office equipment
• A documented history of working well with young children
• Work experience as an Educational Aide preferred (but not required)

Responsibilities

• Provide instructional support and assist with student care/management
• Maintain confidentiality
• Participate in staff development training programs, faculty meetings, and special events as assigned
• Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required
• Assist or participate in meetings designed to gauge and plan for student needs and support
• Use computer, copier, and audiovisual equipment

Working Conditions

• Work with frequent interruptions, maintain emotional control under stress
• Occasional prolonged or irregular hours
• Frequent standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, pushing, and pulling
• Move small stacks of textbooks, media equipment, desks, and other classroom or adaptive equipment
• May be required to lift and position students with physical disabilities; control behavior through physical restraint; and assist non-ambulatory students
• Exposure to biological hazards

Additional Requirements

• Must possess or obtain a valid Texas fingerprint clearance card
• 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

About Special Education at Great Hearts

At Great Hearts, our Special Education Teachers and Coordinators are integral members of our faculty, participating in all faculty-wide events and professional development. The team brings specialized expertise necessary for the success of all students.

Great Hearts aims to serve all students within our special education population in a manner that affirms and reflects their dignity and rightful participation within the larger student body and academy. Through consultation, resource, inclusion, and co-teaching models, the Special Education team provides essential support, following an Individualized Education Plan, to ensure each student is served in the least restrictive environment possible.