WHMS - ESP - Educational Assistant 6.50

Nova Scotia Regional Centres for Education & CSAP•Rines Creek, NS

6d•Onsite

About The Position

West Hants Middle School is seeking an Educational Assistant for the Enhanced Support Program for the 2026-2027 School Year. This position involves assisting students with various needs, including personal care, safety, behavior management, and transportation. The role requires collaboration with teachers and other professionals to support student learning and development. The position is subject to the Annual Layoff/Recall Process as per the NSGEU Local 73 Collective Agreement.

Requirements

Knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Familiarity with facilitative communication, e.g., picture communication.
Ability to implement a visual schedule.
Ability and experience with record and data keeping.
Ability to work as a team member, under the direction of the teacher, is essential.
Human Services diploma or equivalent post-secondary training and experience in a related human services discipline.
Bona fide occupational requirements as identified.
Specific health-care support training or certification as required.
Ability to perform physical requirements of the position.
Current CPR and First Aid training.

Responsibilities

Assist students with physical and mobility challenges by lifting and positioning.
Ensure a safe and respectful environment when meeting personal care needs of students.
Assist students with routines.
Assist in the operation of support equipment, including lifts and assistive technology.
Administer medication and oral inhalant according to the Guidelines.
Carry out medical procedures (e.g., catheterization, tube feeding) when trained and authorized, according to board policies and/or guidelines.
Implement programs as prepared by the Speech Language Pathologist, Physiotherapist, and Occupational Therapist or other professionals.
Assist with program support when specifically directed and monitored by teacher(s).
Support the implementation of identified behavior management outcomes.
Use appropriate physical interventions in accordance with the Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training Program, the student’s plan, and board policies.
Encourage students to respect the school’s code of conduct guidelines and positive and effective behavioural support (PEBS) initiative.
Model and encourage respect for self and others.
Promote or facilitate positive interactions among all students.
Record data and observations as directed.
Accompany students or provide transportation to students to and from school via school bus, taxi, or private vehicle in compliance with Board policy and procedures.
Provide supervision for students before and after school.
Provide supervision for students during the lunch and recess breaks.
Provide supervision for students in the cafeteria, halls and other designated areas.
Provide supervision of students getting on or off school buses before school begins and after school is dismissed.
Report to the principal or designate any problem or discipline issue that occurred during supervision either individually or as group.