Instructional Aide II

ChanceLight Programs•Orange, CA

23h

About The Position

Spectrum Schools and Programs is seeking an Instructional Aide II to support elementary school students in a special education program. The role provides personalized guidance and implements individualized educational and behavioral strategies in collaboration with teachers and other educational professionals. Support takes place in classrooms, on campus, and in community settings, including vocational activities and work sites. The aide may also provide physical care, transportation support, crisis intervention, and classroom coverage when the teacher is absent. The role contributes to student progress through observation, documentation, data collection, and input to educational and behavioral plans. It also supports classroom operations, staff onboarding, family communication when serving as the primary instructor, and the maintenance of a safe, organized, and welcoming learning environment. The position requires participation in mandatory training and professional development and compliance with company policies and applicable regulatory requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher in education or a related field.
Hold, or be able to obtain within 90 days of beginning employment, a California Emergency 30 Day Substitute Permit.
Hold, or be able to obtain, a valid California driver’s license.
Willingness and ability to drive a company van and transport students in the community.
Ability 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.
Skill in supporting 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 work 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 in an alternative education, special education, and/or behavioral health program setting is preferred.
Prior experience and/or knowledge in special education services, lesson planning, classroom management, and personalized instruction is preferred.

Responsibilities

Implement individualized curriculum, community-based activities, and behavioral strategies aligned with students’ IEPs, ITPs, and PBIPs.
Consult with a supervisor about student progress and plan adjustments; support transitions to mainstream environments or adult programs; and contribute to progress reports, data sheets, and curriculum modifications.
Follow and enrich classroom schedules in line with students’ academic, community, and vocational objectives and individualized service needs.
Document student behaviors and observations accurately and promptly, share information with relevant staff, recommend strategies, and maintain confidentiality of student records.
Collect and analyze student data, record essential information, and provide input for Functional Behavioral Assessments and Positive Behavior Intervention Plans.
Provide job coaching and vocational training on campus and at community work sites, mentor students in job-related skills, and update supervisors on vocational development and placement opportunities.
Support students’ physical care needs, including toileting, medication administration, feeding, and personal hygiene, while maintaining dignity and comfort.
Monitor classroom activities, anticipate safety concerns, and respond proactively.
Follow company policies and regulatory requirements and promptly report concerns or violations.
Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation when needed, prioritizing safety and maintaining emotional neutrality.
Attend mandatory meetings and professional development and meet school and regulatory training requirements.
Help keep the learning environment clean, organized, welcoming, and safe; assist with facility safety and maintenance.
Contribute to a cooperative team environment through effective communication, respect, and collaboration.
Support classroom operations and special projects as directed, including substitute teaching responsibilities.
Serve as 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, preparation of instructional materials, and maintenance of student data binders and communication resources.
Assist with classroom management, budgeting, record-keeping, and maintaining an engaging learning environment.
Serve as an aide or rider on transportation routes when applicable, supporting student safety and behavior on Spectrum vehicles.
Drive Spectrum vehicles and manage student routes when applicable, with a DMV report required.
Perform additional relevant duties as assigned.