Classroom Assistant (Immediate Opening)

Bridges Public Charter School • Washington, DC

1d • $20 - $26 • Onsite

About The Position

Bridges is seeking a passionate Classroom Assistant (CA) to support the whole classroom in our non-categorical self-contained special education classrooms and general education classrooms. The Classroom Assistant will assist with instruction, social-emotional support, and related daily living support for students in grades PreK–5th grade. Supporting classrooms with students who have emotional disorders, autism, pervasive developmental disorder (PDD), developmental delays in one or more areas, intense behavioral challenges, multiple learning problems, and other related disorders. There are two types of non-categorical special education classrooms where a Classroom Assistant could work. A non-categorical special education classroom rooted in the principles of ABA/VB to guide instruction and classroom management. Supervision is provided to all teaching team members by a certified BCBA practitioner. ABA or VB experience is desired but not necessary to apply for the position. Classroom training based on ABA and VB will be provided. Or a Bridge 2 classroom; a setting for students with diverse and significant learning needs where a teaching team provides instruction across multiple subjects throughout the day. This model offers individualized instruction and adapted lessons from the general education curriculum with aligned standards. Our mission is to provide an exemplary educational program that includes all students. Our developmentally appropriate, student and family-centered educational approach nurtures students to expand their developmental skills, in order to build a foundation for life-long learning. We are seeking passionate educators to build an inclusive PK-5 school community. We are seeking individuals who recognize that they are in a position of public trust and are held to a high standard of personal and professional conduct. If you are a dedicated employee who is passionate about creating a culture of inclusion and respect, we invite you to join our team. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our students and build a brighter future for our community.

Requirements

• Have a High School Diploma or GED, High School Diploma & passed the ParaPro Exam, AA or 60 credit hours, BA or MA.
• Having been a Bridges’ employee for a minimum of 6 months.
• Be committed to meeting the needs of a diverse student population.
• Have a track record of being a team player and community-minded.
• Be committed to their learning, including training in ABA/VB.
• Demonstrate strong skills in partnering with families.
• Be committed to meeting the needs of a diverse student population.
• Have a track record of being a team player and community-minded.
• Be committed to their own learning.
• Have excellent time-management skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently.

Nice To Haves

• Child Development Associates' credentials and/or coursework in early childhood education/human development are strongly preferred.
• Experience working in special education and/or with individuals with autism/severe behavioral and academic issues is strongly preferred.
• Have prior work or volunteer experience with children or students with special needs.
• ABA or VB experience is desired but not necessary to apply for the position.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher in the management of a non-categorical self-contained or inclusion classroom.
• Implement prescribed care plan and assist with all Adaptive Daily Living Skills (ADLS) (toileting, cleaning, feeding, positioning) and assistive technology.
• Maintain safety of students and act as a positive role model.
• Support assigned student(s) with physical and academic support during instruction.
• Regularly collect data to track students’ progress in 4 program areas: curriculum, IEP, ADLS, and ABA/VB (if applicable).
• Follow Functional Communication Protocols and Behavior Protocols to respond to students' behavior appropriately and successfully.
• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher, special education service providers (speech, PT, OT), ELL teacher, School Nurse, and Assistant Teachers to address student needs in the classroom.
• Assist in incorporating student(s) into all aspects of the academic environment.
• Support the creation of a classroom culture and environment that develops and nurtures the emotional, cognitive and social abilities of the students.
• Contribute productively to the school as a whole.
• Attend and participate in school events outside of regular school hours.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Child care and health savings plans
• pre-tax deduction for Metro
• regular staff engagement and wellness activities
• Staff lounge
• lactation room for nursing mothers
• Health benefits (medical & dental)
• disability insurance
• a retirement plan: 401 (k) with a 4% match or the continuation of the DCPS retirement plan.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED