Instructional Aide SCALE (7.5 hours/11 months), Haggerty/OSS

Cambridge Public Schools • Cambridge, MA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Instructional Aide Paraprofessional reports to and is supervised by the special educator. They are primarily responsible for assisting in the implementation of each student’s Individualized Educational Plan (IEP). The SCALE program is an eleven-month substantially separate program for scholars who require intensive, specially designed instruction in Social, Communication, Academic, and Life Skills Education in a specialized classroom setting. A majority of our scholars are on the Autism Spectrum, but the program serves students with a range of disabilities across elementary, middle, and high school, as well as a Post Graduate Program for young adults aged 18-22. The school motto, “Everyone is Different, Everyone Belongs,” is the foundation of their commitment to diversity and inclusion, believing that all students can achieve at high levels. The school values the culture and beliefs each child brings to the classroom and believes children must engage with their world to make sense of it and build knowledge. Each student is expected to take responsibility for their own learning while collaborating, supporting, and respecting others. The Office of Student Services (OSS) is responsible for providing a variety of support and services to students in Cambridge Public Schools (CPS), ensuring equitable access and success for students with disabilities and those with advanced learning needs.

Requirements

• Above average skills in collaboration
• Excellent skills in oral communication
• Demonstrated ability to problem solve
• Experience working with students in urban environments
• Must be energetic, enthusiastic, patient, and flexible
• Assist in addressing the physical, educational, and social-emotional needs of the students
• Willingness to be trained in de-escalation and safe physical restraint techniques
• Must have the physical ability to work on the floor and move around the room to support students and teachers in curriculum implementation, use of manipulatives, and other instructional methods and materials

Nice To Haves

• Associates degree or 48 college credits from an accredited college or university preferred
• Previous Montessori training or experience preferred

Responsibilities

• Assist with instruction for students with disabilities
• Supervise students with disabilities during non-instructional activities
• Supervise students during transitions
• Collaborate with general education, special education, and related services staff
• Accommodate and modify for student learning and support the general education teacher with the implementation of appropriate accommodations in the general education setting
• Perform related duties as may be designated by the special educator or supervisor
• Toileting of students is a duty that an individual may be expected and required to perform as a paraprofessional employed by the Cambridge Public Schools

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree