Instructional Aide II

Atlantis Academy•Buena Park, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs is seeking an Instructional Aide II to support high school students in a special education program. The role provides personalized guidance to enrich students’ educational experiences and enhance classroom effectiveness. Working closely with teachers and other educational professionals, the aide implements individualized strategies and supports student success in classroom and community settings. The position includes implementing individualized academic, behavioral, community, and vocational programming; documenting and sharing student progress; supporting students’ physical care and safety; and assisting with classroom operations. The aide may serve as the primary instructor during a teacher’s absence, support and orient new staff, and assist with student transportation where applicable.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher in education or a related field.
Currently hold, or be able to obtain within 90 days of beginning employment, a California Emergency 30 Day Substitute Permit.
Currently 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; experience in an alternative, special education, or behavioral health program setting is preferred.
Skill in working with children with autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disorders, and/or other related disabilities.
Proficiency in motivating students and having 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, organizational, 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 of special education services, lesson planning, classroom management, and personalized instruction.
Experience in an alternative, special education, and/or behavioral health program setting.

Responsibilities

Implement personalized curriculum, community-based activities, and behavioral interventions 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; contribute progress reports, data sheets, and curriculum modifications.
Follow and enrich classroom schedules in line with academic, community, and vocational objectives and individualized service needs.
Document student behavior accurately and promptly, share observations and recommended strategies with relevant staff, and maintain confidentiality of student records.
Collect and analyze data, record student information, and contribute 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 classroom activities and address potential safety concerns proactively.
Follow company policies and regulatory requirements and promptly report concerns or violations.
Provide calm crisis intervention and de-escalation when needed, prioritizing student and staff safety and maintaining emotional neutrality.
Attend required meetings, training, and professional development sessions.
Help keep the learning environment clean, organized, welcoming, and safe, including organizing materials and assisting with facility maintenance.
Contribute to a cooperative team environment through effective communication, mutual respect, and collaboration.
Assist with classroom operations and special projects, including substitute teaching responsibilities.
Act as primary instructor and supervisor when the teacher is absent, communicate with families, and maintain classroom systems.
Orient and support new staff regarding 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 a stimulating learning environment.
Serve as an aide or rider on transportation routes where applicable, supporting student safety and behavior on Spectrum vehicles.
Drive Spectrum vehicles and manage daily student transportation routes where applicable.
Perform other relevant duties as assigned.