Instructional Aide

Atlantis Academy•Lakewood, CA

17d

About The Position

Spectrum Center Schools and Programs is seeking an Instructional Aide for its special education program serving students in Grades K–12. The role provides personalized support, supervision, and guidance in classroom and community settings. Working closely with classroom educators, the Instructional Aide helps implement each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and tailors instruction to students’ individual learning needs. The position supports students in building skills, confidence, and independence.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and passage of a basic skills test.
Currently hold or be able to obtain a valid California state driver’s license.
Be comfortable driving and/or riding in a company van with students before and/or after school.
Be able to obtain and maintain certification in company-approved crisis management training.
Have prior experience providing instruction, guidance, and/or support to children.
Be highly skilled in working with children with autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, emotional behavioral disorders, and/or related disabilities.
Be proficient in motivating students and having critical conversations that help them work toward realistic goals.
Be able to think and act quickly and calmly in an emergency and make independent decisions.
Have strong oral and written communication, organization, conflict resolution, multitasking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Have knowledge of relevant technology, including instructional technology, Microsoft Office Suite, database entry, and basic office equipment.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or higher in education or a related field.
Current California state paraprofessional or related credential, or be in the process of obtaining one.
Prior experience in an alternative, special education, and/or behavioral health program setting.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with classroom teachers to create a supportive, welcoming, and high-achieving learning environment where students feel safe and valued.
Implement individualized instruction and behavioral interventions on-site and in community settings, aligned with each student’s goals and objectives.
Instruct and monitor students during classroom lessons, ensure instructional fidelity, and use targeted strategies to improve comprehension and course completion.
Track student progress against established timelines and communicate successes and intervention needs to classroom teachers.
Manage student behavior, reinforce school philosophy and policies, and apply consistent disciplinary measures in collaboration with classroom teachers.
Support and mentor students facing academic challenges and help them develop community, vocational, leisure, domestic, academic, and social skills.
Complete clear, accurate, timely documentation of student behavior and performance, report observations, and provide actionable recommendations to relevant staff.
Assist with behavioral reports, daily activity logs, and other required documentation.
Communicate with students, colleagues, supervisors, and families about student needs, achievements, and concerns in partnership with teachers and administration.
Maintain the confidentiality of student records and information.
Participate in assurance and accreditation activities and contribute to site performance standards and accreditation requirements.
Participate in school-wide, student-parent, and advisory meetings.
Respond constructively to formal and informal feedback and demonstrate ongoing professional growth.
Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support students and the educational community.