Instructional Aide II

Atlantis Academy•Orange, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs is seeking an Instructional Aide II for its elementary special education program. The role provides personalized support and guidance to students, enriching their educational experiences and supporting classroom effectiveness. Working closely with teachers and other educational professionals, the aide implements individualized strategies and fosters student success in classroom and community settings. The aide supports academic, behavioral, community, and vocational learning aligned with each student’s individualized plans. The position also involves personal care, safety monitoring, crisis intervention, documentation, data collection, job coaching, classroom operations, and, where applicable, student transportation. The role may include serving as the primary instructor in the teacher’s absence and supporting the orientation of new staff.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher in education or a related field.
Currently hold or be able to obtain a California Emergency 30 Day Substitute Permit within 90 days of beginning employment.
Currently hold or be able to obtain a valid California driver’s license.
Be willing and able to drive a company van and transport students in the community.
Be able to obtain and maintain certification in company-approved crisis management training.
At least 3 years of prior experience providing instruction, guidance, and/or support to children.
Highly skilled in working with children with autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disorders, and/or related disabilities.
Ability to motivate students and have critical conversations that help them progress toward realistic goals.
Ability to think and act quickly and calmly in emergencies and make independent decisions.
Advanced oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Proficiency with relevant technology, including computers, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry, and basic office equipment.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience and/or knowledge in special education services, lesson planning, classroom management, and personalized instruction.
Experience in an alternative education, special education, and/or behavioral health program setting.

Responsibilities

Implement personalized curriculum, on-site and community-based activities, and behavioral intervention strategies aligned with students’ IEPs, ITPs, and PBIPs.
Consult with supervisors about student progress and individualized plan adjustments; assist with transitions to mainstream settings or adult programs; and contribute to progress reports, data sheets, and curriculum modifications.
Follow and enrich classroom schedules in support of students’ academic, community, vocational, and individualized educational objectives.
Document student behavior accurately and promptly, share observations with relevant staff, recommend strategies, and maintain confidentiality of student records.
Collect and analyze student data, record essential information, and contribute input to Functional Behavioral Assessments and Positive Behavior Intervention Plans.
Provide job coaching, vocational training, and mentoring on campus and at community work sites; update supervisors on vocational development and placement opportunities.
Support students’ physical care needs, including toileting, medication administration, feeding, and personal hygiene, while maintaining their dignity and comfort.
Monitor student activities and classroom safety, anticipate concerns, and respond proactively.
Follow company policies and regulatory requirements and report concerns or violations promptly.
Provide calm, appropriate crisis intervention and de-escalation while prioritizing student and staff safety and maintaining emotional neutrality.
Attend required meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.
Help maintain a clean, organized, welcoming, and safe learning environment, including cleaning and organizing materials.
Contribute to a cooperative team environment through effective communication, mutual respect, and collaboration.
Assist with classroom operations and special projects as directed, including substitute teaching responsibilities.
Serve as the primary instructor and supervisor when the teacher is absent, communicate with families, and maintain classroom systems.
Orient and support new staff on agency guidelines.
Assist with educational planning, preparing learning materials, and maintaining student data binders and communication resources.
Assist with classroom management, budgeting, record-keeping, and maintaining a stimulating learning environment.
Where applicable, serve as an aide on transportation routes, supporting student safety and behavior on company vehicles.
Where applicable, drive company vehicles safely and manage daily student transportation routes.
Perform additional relevant duties as assigned.