Elem Classroom Assistant (3rd-5th)

Bridges Public Charter School • Washington, DC

119d • $18 - $23

About The Position

Bridges is seeking a passionate Classroom Assistant (CA) to support students with special needs in our non-categorical self-contained special education classrooms and general education classrooms. The Classroom Assistant will assist with specialized instruction and related daily living support for students in grades PreK–5th grade with emotional disorders, autism, pervasive developmental disorder (PDD), developmental delays in one or more areas, intense behavioral challenges, multiple learning problems, and other related disorders. Non-categorical special education classrooms are 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. This is a 10-month position.

Requirements

• Have a High School Diploma or GED, High School Diploma & passed the ParaPro Exam, AA or 60 credit hours, BA or MA.
• 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.
• 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.
• Have excellent time-management skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently.
• Have a passion for urban public schools.
• Adhere to a high level of professional and ethical standards.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Lead Teacher in the management of a non-categorical self-contained/inclusion classroom for high level special needs students.
• 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

• $18.11 - 23.92 / Per Hour
• Child care and health savings plans
• Pre-tax deduction for Metro
• Bike racks
• Regular staff engagement and wellness activities
• Staff lounge and lactation room for nursing mothers
• Health benefits (medical & dental)
• Disability insurance
• Retirement plan: 401 (k) with a 4% match or the continuation of the DCPS retirement plan

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: High school or GED